Pictured: Brighton pubs and shops return as lockdown eased

Shoppers returned to their favourite stores, pub gardens were filled with cheerful (albeit chilly) patrons and barbers were in high demand as punters pleaded with them to tame their gnarly lockdown barnets.

The influence of the coronavirus crisis was still plain to see, with customers wearing masks, socially distanced queues and more hand-sanitising stations than you can shake a stick at, but it was clear those present appreciated the rebirth of many businesses in the city centre.

Brighton pubs, shops and barbers were among those able to reopen today, April 12, as lockdown measures were eased further in line with the government's roadmap Credit: Simon Dack

Today marks the start of Step 2 of the government's "roadmap" to lifting lockdown restrictions, with the reopening of schools and allowing people to meet in groups of six outside already implemented last month as part of the first stage of the plan.

Under the updated Step 2 lockdown rules, non-essential retail, personal care premises and public buildings such as libraries and community centres are all allowed to reopen.

Indoor leisure centres, including gyms, can welcome back fitness fans, and hospitality venues can serve people outside.

Brighton pubs, shops and barbers were among those able to reopen today, April 12, as lockdown measures were eased further in line with the government's roadmap Credit: Simon Dack

Zoos, theme parks, drive-in cinemas and self-contained accommodation may also return.

In Brighton, the business which attracted the largest queue was Primark, with hundreds waiting in line to visit the high street retailer and pick up some bargains.

Lengthy queues extended into the road and up nearby Crown Street at times as staff on the door monitored the number of people entering the store at any one time.

There were long queues outside Primark in Brighton as an easing of lockdown measures allowed non-essential retail to reopen Credit: Eddie Mitchell

Elsewhere, small groups braved the bracing weather conditions and, at one point, even a smattering of snow to perch outside their favourite pubs and raise a glass to better times ahead.

And hairdressers were visibly busy with an empty chair proving to be a rare commodity.

Trying to place a booking with any of Brighton's barbers has been a challenge for many residents as thousands look to reacquaint their hair with scissors and clippers after three months without a cut.

Brighton pubs, shops and barbers were among those able to reopen today, April 12, as lockdown measures were eased further in line with the government's roadmap Credit: Simon Dack

The next easing of lockdown restrictions is set to take place on May 17 at the earliest.

From this date, if Covid data at the time supports the move, the government hopes to ease limits on social contact, "allowing people to decide on the appropriate level of risk for their circumstances".

Most legal restrictions on meeting people outdoors would be lifted, although gatherings of more than 30 people will remain illegal.

Brighton pubs, shops and barbers were among those able to reopen today, April 12, as lockdown measures were eased further in line with the government's roadmap Credit: Simon Dack

Up to six people from different households will be allowed to meet indoors. Two households of any size will also be able to mix in indoor spaces.

Indoor hospitality will be allowed to reopen, and the government hopes to "allow some larger performances and sporting events in indoor venues with a capacity of 1,000 people or half-full (whichever is a lower number), and in outdoor venues with a capacity of 4,000 people or half-full (whichever is a lower number)".

There will also be a review of social distancing measures.

Brighton pubs, shops and barbers were among those able to reopen today, April 12, as lockdown measures were eased further in line with the government's roadmap Credit: Simon Dack

The "roadmap" states: "Finally, before Step 4 begins on June 21 at the earliest, the government will complete a review of social distancing and other long-term measures that have been put in place to cut transmission.

"This will inform decisions on the timing and circumstances under which the rules on one-metre plus, the wearing of face coverings and other measures may be lifted.

"This will also inform guidance on working from home – which should continue wherever possible until this review is complete."