CUSTOMERS have flocked back to Bradford’s city centre markets after lockdown restrictions eased earlier this month.

And after months of hairdressers and salons being shut, there was a strong demand for hair, beauty and personal care services which has been welcomed by Kirkgate Market traders.

The Oastler Centre, which has been partially open for essential goods has recorded its highest footfall since the first national lockdown in March 2020.

Plant One On Me owner, Ursula Sutcliffe, who has been closed since the beginning of January and is very pleased to re-open her doors on the Oastler Centre exterior front to old customers and new, said: “We are so excited to see familiar faces again in our shop, it has been a difficult few months but we have been proactive on our website and interactive with our customers on social media which has kept us going.

“The support from our loyal customers has been phenomenal and we have now introduced a ‘micro-menu’ which consists of fresh homemade soups, salads, olive platters, continental breads and scones.

Bradford records highest footfall since last March as shoppers rush back

"Although houseplants are the core of our business, we have enjoyed offering quick bites for lunchtime and it has allowed us to work with other local food traders.”

Alice Sanderson, owner of beauty salon Mystic Brows inside the Kirkgate Market recorded one of her busiest weeks since Covid.

She said: “We have always relied on clients returning to us and booking follow-up treatments after being happy with our services, it has been great to see a queue outside my stall after such a long time and most of those clients were familiar faces.

“The lockdown has also allowed me to be creative with my other interests which include making handmade jewellery. I have now launched my jewellery line and look forward to promoting this online and inside my shop.”

Jason Longhurst, Interim Strategic Director, for Bradford Council's Department of Place, said: “Officers have pulled out all the stops to ensure our markets have been ready to receive additional customers following the easing of government restrictions.

“We are delighted to see such strong loyalty for our markets and believe this reflects the high quality and value of our offerings."