A Cornish village has pulled together to reopen safely and is now counting on the support of the public. 

Following the latest stage in the Government’s relaxation of lockdown restrictions coming into force on July 4, businesses, shoppers and local residents in Threemilestone near  Truro have fully reopened the centre of the village.

Threemilestone's shops and businesses that have been badly affected by the length of the lockdown closure and say they can’t wait to welcome the return of their customers.

While social distancing means that the experience will inevitably feel a little different, everyone has been working very hard to ensure that customers feel confident and safe about coming back.

Local Cornwall Councillor Dulcie Tudor has been delighted to see the reopening of the village centre.

Read next: Coronavirus in Cornwall round up - Sunday, July 5

Dulcie said: “It’s vital we support local business and start using our local butchers, bakers, hair salons and takeaways again, secure in the knowledge it’s safe to do so.

“We know that not all businesses are going to ‘bounce back’ post coronavirus, but we can all help to get Threemilestone’s traders back on their feet. It’s a Friday fish supper for me!”

Kenwyn Parish Council is also welcoming the reopening of the village centre. A spokesperson said: “It seems an appropriate time to remark on how truly remarkable it has been to see the community of Threemilestone come together, from the businesses, no matter how big or small, to every single resident who has volunteered to help and more.

“With the easing of restrictions it's now time to slowly move back to the 'new normal' of everyday life, with a renewed hope and spirit of co-operation throughout the community, hard-earned through the pandemic.”

Read next: IN PICTURES - How Cornwall has reopened its businesses and borders

For village hairdressers Lowenek the closure has been longer than for other businesses, as the salon closed the week before lockdown for a complete refurbishment.

Co-owners Tanya Jones and Laura Harman said: "While we are following all the safety guidance, including social distancing, face coverings and hand sanitisers, we want to make sure that we still provide the same lovely, relaxing experience for our clients.

"The salon has a totally new look, which has actually created extra space which is helping us to meet the social distancing guidance as well as looking amazing."

Victoria Pharmacy, based in the centre of the village, supports more than 4,000 patients and has been incredibly busy dealing with prescriptions during the past three months.

As well as re-arranging the layout of the premises so shoppers could pick up and pay for items at the door, staff also set up a free delivery service to help get medicines to vulnerable people and those who have been shielding. 

Read next: Cornwall to get first dedicated dry ski slope centre between Falmouth and Truro

 “We originally changed the way we worked to ensure it was safe for both staff and patients, "explained manager Judith Barta. “Patients told us they felt safer not having to come inside the shop and the new system has worked very well.

 “Although the lockdown restrictions are now being relaxed, we are planning to wait a few weeks before changing the layout of the shop back to see what happens.  

"In the meantime work is taking place to install a plastic screen at the till area, and we will still be offering a delivery service to people who are home shielding. “

Among the other shops and business that have remained open during the lockdown to support the local community are the post office, the Spar Shop and the Co -Op, Lampier’s butchers and the Wash ‘n’ Go launderette. 

The Victoria Public House has provided click and collect take away food and local food outlets, including Warren’s Bakery, Kellaway's Fish and Chips, and the Hong Kong House, have re-opened for takeaways.