Hairdressers and beauty therapists can't wait to reopen

Businesses say they are delighted to have been given something to work towards but are concerned that this date when all essential retail and personal care can welcome customers back could be put back.

Leanne Forsey, who owns the award-winning Guyz n Dollz salon in Wharton Road, said: "At least we've got a date rather than last time when we were left in limbo.

"Messages have been coming in thick and fast from customers wanting to book but I have not opened our appointments yet.

If all goes well and things are going in the right direction, I will open our diary."

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Business owners are calling on the Government to extend financial support to help them through the next seven weeks.

"The self employment grants have not been extended and furlough stops at the end of March. They are going to have to help businesses."

Leanne has been overwhelmed with support from customers.

"People have dropped off flowers and little plants to show they are thinking of me," said mum-of-four Leanne, who has been running her business for 14 years. "Little things like that give you a boost.

"I keep in contact with all my staff. I did a barbecue and hand delivered some food to them.

"We can't wait to see each other and all our customers. There is light at the end of the tunnel. We've got to try and stay positive and keep smiling."

Beauty therapist Vicki Evans, who runs award-winning Cheshire Skin Logic from her home in Wharton Road, said: "I am a bit apprehensive. I don't want to get too excited as the last two times it has been changed.

"I have not opened my booking system although I have received umpteen messages.

Beauty therapist Vicki Evans is waiting before she starts taking bookings again

Beauty therapist Vicki Evans is waiting before she starts taking bookings again

"It is such a relief to know that customers are going to come back.

"Once more data comes in and we see how the rates go, I will start to take bookings.

"I can't wait to get back to work. I want to hug all my customers, hopefully I can by Christmas."

Beauty therapist Abbie Clarke, who runs The Hair and Beauty Box with hair stylist sister Hollie Ryan in Winsford town centre is more confident.

Sisters Holly Ryan and Abbie Clarke have been inundated with bookings at The Hair and Beauty Box

Sisters Holly Ryan and Abbie Clarke have been inundated with bookings at The Hair and Beauty Box

The mum-of-two said: "I am really happy. We have opened our online appointments system and it is pinging away with bookings which is a relief.

"It is great to have a date to work towards. We have been speaking to our customers. It will be nice to catch up with them.

"It's great that there is an end in sight for everyone."