Customers queue round the corner for first haircut in months as Sheffield barbers reopen

Today (April 12) marks the first day of Step 2 of the government's roadmap out of lockdown, which means, getting a professional haircut is finally allowed.

A barber in Hillsborough particularly saw a long queue outside its premises even before it opened at 9am.

Jamie Shaw who posted a picture of the queue on Twitter, said: "Queue outside a barbers in Hillsborough this morning at 8.50am."

Dapper Chaps on Division Street also had a huge queue forming this morning, as customers waited patiently for just one chair.

It is expected that hairdressers and other personal care services will be inundated with bookings and a long list of customers beginning today as the country cautiously returns to normality.

The Step 2 means significant parts of the indoor economy and outdoor settings will be allowed to reopen but some restrictions still remain in place.

Pubs, restaurants and other hospitality venues are also allowed to operate for outdoor service, with no curfew and no requirement on serving a substantial meal with alcohol.

But table service will be required as the customers need to eat and drink while seated.

Today also marks the day of the reopening of non-essential retail, gyms and hairdressers but social distancing rules will still apply.

This means, those who would like to visit these venues must go alone or with your household group.

Overnight stays away from home in England are also permitted and self-contained accommodation can reopen but can only be used by members of the same household or support bubble.

Libraries and community centres are also allowed to operate starting today including zoos, theme parks, drive-in cinemas and drive-in performance events.

Additional changes to the rules also apply to the number of visitors of care homes that now allows two visitors per resident instead of one previously.

Funerals will be allowed to continue with up to 30 attendees while weddings and other outdoor receptions will be allowed with up to 15 attendees.

Despite these sectors reopening, people are still advised to continue to work from home if possible and minimise domestic travel.

Meanwhile, it is still illegal to go on international holidays.

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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 digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.