SOMERSET’S bars and beauty salons were among the latest businesses to re-open at the weekend.

As Government restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic were eased, hospitality premises became the latest to re-open their doors to customers, with many celebrating with a haircut and a drink on what was dubbed ‘Super Saturday’.

In Bridgwater, many businesses were delighted to finally be able to welcome their customers back after more than three months.

Tracey Clayton, salon owner at Bobs Hair and Nails in Bridgwater High Street, said it was lovely to be open again and was pleased with how the first weekend went.

“It went ever so well, in fact we have never felt so loved,” Mrs Clayton said.

“People were pleased to see us open again and some even brought us presents.

“I think we were a little nervous at first, making sure everything was perfect, but now three days in, we have picked up a good rhythm.”

Becky West, senior stylist and salon owner at the Hair Hub, also located in the High Street, said she was delighted to welcome back clients, and the feeling seemed to be mutual.

“Even though they were wearing masks, you could see their eyes light up as they came in,” Mrs West said.

“Any doubts I had were soon eased, our customers were happy to comply with everything we asked,and it was a nice relaxed atmosphere with plenty of laughing and catching up.”

Mrs West said The Hair Hub was currently only able to see five or six clients a day, but the demand for spaces meant they were now booked up until mid-August.

“It is a little strange getting used to wearing PPE, but we have all the procedures in place and it has all gone smoothly so far.”

The Fountain Inn, in West Quay, was among the many pubs welcoming back customers to enjoy a pint and socialising with friends this weekend.

Staff wore PPE and there was limited capacity, but both customers and staff were pleased to be open again.

Despite some fears about pubs re-opening, in Somerset, police said there were ‘no significant incidents’.

“We’d like to thank all those who visited our towns and cities yesterday as licensed premises reopened for the first time in more than three months,” said a spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police.

“Plans had been put in place to respond to an increase in demand for our services but we’re pleased to say there were no significant incidents.”

Here are some pictures from across Bridgwater as businesses geared up to re-open:

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At The Fountain Inn, Bridgwater

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At The Fountain Inn, Bridgwater

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At The Fountain Inn, Bridgwater

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At BOBS Hair & Nails in Bridgwater

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At Bridgwater High Street Barbers

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At The Hair Hub, Bridgwater

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At Taylors Barber Shop

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At the Victoria Hair and Spa in the High Street

Bridgwater Mercury:

READY: At The Town Hotel, Bridgwater