On behalf of Cornwall’s Members of Parliament, I have launched a campaign calling on people to shop locally now that retail is allowed to re-open. Hundreds of businesses across Cornwall have been forced to shut due to the COVID-19 pandemic and they will see their first week of trading after several months.

North Cornwall’s businesses have made a huge sacrifice by shutting and helping to stop the spread of COVID-19, many of them have taken out loans to cover costs and overheads. We can show our support by thinking about what we need to buy and making a choice to shop locally.

Our great Cornish economy can provide everything we need, right on our doorstep. From food, to DIY products, and everything in between. If each of us buys something locally when retail reopens, we can really make a difference.

High street retailers and department stores, including book shops, electronics retailers, tailors, auction houses, photography studios, indoor markets, and shops selling clothes, shoes and toys, will be allowed to open their doors again provided they follow the COVID-19 secure guidelines set out by the government in May.

Retailers will need to take certain steps to protect customers and staff, including limiting the number of customers allowed inside at one time, placing protective coverings on large items such as sofas which may be touched by passing shoppers, and frequently checking and cleaning objects and surfaces.

Employers should also display a notice visibly in their shop windows or outside their store to show their employees, customers, and other visitors that they have followed this guidance.