West Lothian is back open for business.
That was the message this week when hairdressers, bars, restaurants and museums threw open their doors for the first time since March.
The easing of lockdown meant shopping centres can now welcome customers and people could enjoy a pint and something to eat indoors, while places of worship were also allowed to reopen.
Hairdressers around the county were delighted to finally see clients who have been desperate for a trim after nearly four months in lockdown.
A long queue formed outside Bathgate Barbers as people waited patiently for it to open.
Owner, Frank Strachan, summed it up when he said: “It’s been a long time coming so it’s great to be back up and running.”
Jamie Black, manager of Bathgate’s Big Bang hair salon, added: “We’re glad to be open and it’s great to see all friendly faces and to be able to welcome clients again.
“We’re a bit anxious to see how it’s going to go with the PPE requirements but hopefully there will be no second wave and we can all get back to a bit of normality.”
One of the salon’s clients, John Bird, said he was delighted to have his first haircut in nearly four months, adding: “It’s good to get back and you get used to the PPE.”
Shoppers flocked to The Centre, Livingston on Monday, with hundreds of people pouring through the doors in the first few hours of opening.
Centre director, Patrick Robbertze, said there was a buzz in the air as people descended on the shops to pick up a bargain on Monday.
He said: “It was fantastic to be able to welcome so many shoppers back into The Centre, Livingston today and feel that buzz in the air again.
“There’s a few changes in the mall following Scottish Government guidelines, including safe distancing measures and enhanced cleaning regimes.
“Our teams have worked really hard to make sure every visitor has a safe and fantastic shopping experience when they get here.”
Visitor attractions including the Almond Valley Heritage Centre were also pleased to get back
to business on Wednesday.
A spokesperson said: “We’ve been working hard to put all sorts of measures in place so people can enjoy Almond Valley in a safe and sensible way.”
The Military Museum in Wilkieston is set to open on Friday.
