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Dec 2020

Last Updated: 01/12/2020

Business

Knaresborough shops gear up to reopen today

by Suzannah Rogerson

| 02 Dec, 2020

After a month of lockdown, Knaresborough's shop owners say they need a huge boost to sales to cover the losses of two lockdowns. As shops reopen today there are hopes that people will come out and support them.

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Photograph: Charlotte Gale Photography

The Christmas lights are up, the business owners are ready, now all Knaresborough needs is shoppers.

After a month of lockdown, Knaresborough's shop owners say they need a huge boost to sales to cover the losses of two lockdowns.

The shopkeepers have been eager to reopen and are encouraging people to venture out and support their local high street.

The whole town is getting in the festive spirit. Knaresborough Chamber of Trade has helped to light up the town by installing 80 trees on the sides of buildings.

Shop owners have also been busy decorating their windows in an effort to encourage more shoppers to visit.

Diane Watson, owner of Knitting Pretty on Castlegate, said they're feeling apprehensive and excited to see what today brings.:

"I've been desperate to open but now it's here I'm a little nervous. I don't know what to expect, it's a scary time. This is usually my busiest time of the year so missing out on some of it has really hit me. I have such loyal customers so I am hoping for the best."

Gill Mitchell, owner of Stomp footwear on Market Place, said:

"I'm raring to go I'm just hoping we can stay open for January, we just have to embrace it while we can. As soon as Boris said we can reopen people have waited to see us properly in store. It's coming alive here in Knaresborough so hopefully more people will come."

Over lockdown, many shops have moved online to boost the gap in sales. Tracey Bell at Ruebury Flowers offered a delivery service to ensure she wasn't losing her annual Christmas customers.

She said:

"This lockdown has been completely different, I've been busy with orders and trying to do what I can. I am nervous but that's because it is a difficult time for everyone but everyone in Knaresborough is remaining positive so let's hope for a good few weeks of trade."

Harrogate's independent shops say they have to wait to see numbers of shoppers before opening late.

Knaresborough to lose its final bank next year.

Knaresborough Chamber of Trade has been offering local businesses advice on opening up following the lockdown on their social media and website. Its president, Steve Teggin, said:

"It's so good we needed this. The town is looking great too and the shopkeepers are really making an effort this tear too, we all want people to come and visit. We have to be careful of course but we can't wait to reopen."