Doncaster enters tier 3 restrictions as the 2nd lockdown ends with shops reopening. Picture: Chris EtchellsDoncaster enters tier 3 restrictions as the 2nd lockdown ends with shops reopening. Picture: Chris Etchells
Doncaster enters tier 3 restrictions as the 2nd lockdown ends with shops reopening. Picture: Chris Etchells

This is how Doncaster town centre looked today as four week lockdown finally ended

Lockdown part two is over – and Doncaster returned to the shops.

Our picture gallery shows the scene today as residents were allowed back out of their houses for non-essential shopping as retailers and beauty salons opened their doors again after four weeks.

The lockdown had started early last month, on November 5, but some were able to make a start on their Christmas shopping, as can be seen in our pictures.

Businesses today appeared pleased with the way Doncaster residents had come out again into the town centre.

Michelle Smith, who runs the Shoe Room shoe shop in Priory Walks with husband Richard, was pleased with the reaction of the public to the end of lockdown and the return to the shops.

Michelle said: “It was a quiet start, but then it was almost like someone flicked a switch and there were more people coming into the shop.

"We hope it’s the start of a Christmas rush, but it’s a bit early to say.”

She said they planned to run later shopping on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays and Sunday opening

Market trader Ryan Davis, from the greengrocers KD Davis, thought town was much busier as people took the chance to get out at last.

He said: “It’s been busier today, definitely busier, in terms of people and trade. It was good to see people back out.

"I wouldn’t say there had been any panic buying going on.

"What I would say is that I think people were enjoying having their freedom back a bit. I thought it was nice to see the stalls back today on the Wednesday bric-a-brac market too.

"We’ve sold a few more Christmas wreaths than in the previous weeks, too. My customers have been glad to get back to shopping a bit more, and it felt more relaxed.”

Some of the shops opened today look set to disappear from the high street soon. Peacocks currently has its closing down sale continuing, while the department store Debenhams is currently due to close after its stock is sold off, having been placed in administration earlier this week.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.

Related topics: