ILMINSTER businesses have welcomed shoppers back in this week, bringing ‘life back to the high street’.

Monday was a landmark day as many non-essential shops were allowed to reopen once again, although many have had to adapt to meet government guidelines.

The UK was put into lockdown on March 23 in response to the coronavirus pandemic, and after almost three months things are starting to open up again.

Among the Ilminster firms to reopen on Monday (June 15) was Cottage Flowers.

Angie Blackwell, the business’ owner, said: “We are busy and we are buzzing.

“The shop isn’t how we normally run it. We have a one in and one out, and I only have one of my staff in at the moment.

“I have to keep my staff safe, the customers safe, and me too.”

The florists has opened again from Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, and on Saturday from 9am to 1pm.

Chard & Ilminster News:

Jacalyn and Angie from Cottage Flowers

Angie added: “The last few months have been hard, because I have had the shop for 22 years it was difficult to see it close.

“Ilminster is full of lovely people and they just want to see us back up and running.

“We have had loads of regular customers in. Someone even brought us some cakes. That is just what Ilminster is like.”

Most of Cottage Flowers’ business is weddings, but Angie said she is expecting a busy diary for next year to make up for 2020.

The business has also continued some essential work with funeral directors during lockdown.

Angie said: “We will be allowing one customer in at a time, due to space there won’t be a waiting area inside.

“If possible, please pre-order for collections so we can have them ready for you.”

For more, call Cottage Flowers on 01460 53020.