As the summer season begins and shops start to re-open, businesses are welcoming visitors and shoppers safely back to high streets and town centres across Tendring.

Businesses have been busy putting into place the government’s guidance and preparing safety measures for customers and staff.

Brightlingsea, as well as other coastal towns and villages in Tendring, rely on a busy summer season, welcoming thousands of visitors each year.

Shops have been hit hard by Covid-19, but now it’s time to bounce back and collectively they have one message for visitors; Tendring is open for business.

Tendring District Council’s ‘Shop Safe’ campaign, is all about promoting its town centres, shops and high streets, encouraging people to visit high streets but to still adhere to safety measures and stay safe.

Rachel Parker from An Ethical Life, an eco-friendly shop in Brightlingsea said: “All scoops, containers and scales are washed more frequently, and we have hand sanitisers available throughout the shop.

"We are asking all customers to wear masks and we have ensured social distancing is possible by allowing only two customers in the shop at any time.

Halstead Gazette:

"We are only open Thursday, Friday & Saturday 9.30am to 1pm.”

Halstead Gazette:

But the seaside resorts are more than just shopping.

Brightlingsea, positioned close to the Colne Estuary, and Brightlingsea Creek, provides a lovely day out for walkers and nature lovers.

There are many shops, restaurants, pubs and bars to explore, and a museum which has exhibits dating back to the Bronze Age.

There are colourful beach huts, a boating lake and a nature reserve close by. Or sit back and watch the children play on the Blue Flag sandy beach.

Although the Government is encouraging people safely back to shops, they have stipulated that we must not let our progress lead to complacency and ask people to remain vigilant in order to keep the virus under control.

From Monday July 24, to give people more confidence to shop safely, and enhance protections for those who work in shops, the use of face coverings will be mandatory in shops and supermarkets.

Graham Bates from ULV Fogging in Lawford aims to keep businesses open and said: “We help businesses operate by offering an "Ultra Low Volume" Fogging system.

"Our ultra-fine sterilising fog kills airborne pathogens right away whilst targeting surfaces and hard to reach areas leaving bacteria nowhere to hide.

"It is suitable for all surfaces including soft furnishings and perishable materials.”

If you are a local business and would like to take part in the council’s Shop Safe campaign please contact enquire@socialcreatives.co.uk.