Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council is working with Basingstoke Together, Festival Place, The Malls and partners in Whitchurch and Overton to welcome shoppers and visitors back next month.

Spring is in the air and everyone is counting down the days to once again enjoy a drink or a bite to eat with others outside, tame the lockdown hair and enjoy the wealth of shops the borough has to offer.

As part of the government’s roadmap to unlock national COVID restrictions, non-essential retail, personal care businesses and outdoor hospitality venues, including pubs and restaurants, are expected to reopen from Monday, April 12.

A spokesperson for the authority said: "Our local businesses are hard at work to make sure it will be a welcoming and pleasant experience and a number of measures will be in place such as one way systems, increased cleaning, hand sanitising stations and lots of signage as a reminder of what to do to keep your family and other people safe.

"When returning to the town centre, you will also notice friendly new town centre ambassadors who will be on hand for useful information and to remind shoppers to wear face coverings and follow social distancing measures.

"And there are plenty of ways to get to the town centre to enjoy a variety of shops, services and hospitality.

"As the warmer weather starts to arrive, walking and cycling provide a great alternative to the car to come and visit your favourite shops and businesses."

For more information about the Top of The Town, visit the Basingstoke Together BID website at www.basingstoketogether.co.uk, The Malls at www.themalls.co.uk and Festival Place’s website at www.festivalplace.co.uk and for general information and news from around the borough go to www.LoveBasingstoke.co.uk.