EVERYONE is being urged to do their bit to help keep people safe as shops prepare to reopen this month.

Non-essential retailers and personal care businesses such as hairdressers and beauty salons are set to welcome customers once again from Monday, April 12.

Also, pubs and restaurants will be able to serve customers outdoors.

In Craven, the district council has been working with businesses to help ensure high streets will be safe.

And under its Reopening High Streets Safely campaign, it is encouraging shoppers to play their part to help stop the spread of Covid-19.

Craven Council chief executive, Paul Shevlin, said: “We know it has been a tough time for everyone in the district, including our many brilliant local independent businesses.

“I have been impressed by how well our shops, pubs, restaurants and beauty businesses have adapted to the Covid crisis and I really hope everyone will continue to support their local high street.

“It is vital that shoppers, residents and visitors take personal responsibility too so we can avoid any potential further lockdown in the future.

“Please wear your face masks, keep your distance where possible and use hand sanitiser regularly.

“Many businesses will have their own restrictions in place – for your safety and that of their staff – and it’s vital everyone follows the guidelines.”

The council’s campaign – which has been financed by the European Regional Development Fund, as part of the Reopening High Streets Safely scheme – aims to support businesses in the high street areas of several towns and villages across the district, including Cross Hills.

Signage has been placed in public areas reminding people of the importance of maintaining social distancing.

Mr Shevlin added: “The Government’s Covid roadmap will allow the opening of non-essential retail, hairdressers and beauty salons and public buildings such as libraries and community halls from April 12. For pubs, unlike last time, there will be no need for customers to eat a substantial meal with alcohol and no early closing restrictions.

“Pedestrian-friendly routes have been waymarked in Skipton – directing people on the safest ways around the town – along with new bollard sleeves in Grassington, hand sanitiser stations and planters in Ingleton, Bentham, Settle and Cross Hills.

“There are new resources on the Craven District Council website outlining the current Government guidelines and interpreting them specifically for local areas.

“Residents and business owners can visit cravendc.gov.uk/coronavirus for up-to-date information on restrictions and what they mean locally.”