The chair of Maldon's Business Board has told how the High Street's shops are looking forward to welcoming the town's shoppers back - and how they are already planning a return of Fiver fest in June.

A number of Maldon's businesses have also given their reaction to confirmation from Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday evening (Monday, 5 April) that his 'roadmap' out of lockdown remains on track, with non-essential retail, hairdressers and beauty salons able to re-open on 12 April.

However, Allison Gray, who owns Willow and Fox in Quest Place, also revealed her own sadness at not being able to re-open her own popular shop on 12 April because of a flood. Allison hopes, however, that insurers will step in so that she can open up the shop again in the next few weeks.

Allison added: "It's been a long wait and businesses are so happy to be opening their doors again.

"It's been challenging for so many Maldon businesses but we are confident our high street will thrive with the support of the public. We have a number of new, exciting businesses opening which is such a positive start.

"Fiver Fest will also return in June which was a great success last year. We look forward to welcoming everyone back to a safe environment and we'd like to reassure the public that Covid safe measures will still be in place."

High Street businesses give their reaction to confirmation from Prime Minister Boris Johnson non-essential retail can re-open on 12 April:

"I am genuinely brimming with excitement to reopen my shop!

"We have been so grateful for the support given to us and other small independents locally during lockdown. Being able to still collect and deliver repairs and stock to customers and work in my workshop has kept me sane. Hopefully the shop local spirit will continue and our Maldon high street will be vibrant once again.!"

Gabrielle Warren - Carlton Jewellers

"We are so happy at Continental Cafe that we are allowed to reopen again and are looking forward to seeing our customers back in our sunny courtyard. And seeing the high street buzzing again with shoppers to Maldon."

Mike Strong - Continental Cafe

"We are really excited about opening our doors again on Monday, especially as we celebrate our second birthday on that day.

"We were so sad not to be able to celebrate our first birthday last year as we were in lockdown. It is going to be so nice to see the High Street come alive again."

Louise - Just the Thing

"The Crystal Shack is very excited to be reopening their doors again and welcoming back existing and new customers.

"We've had amazing support throughout, so a massive thank you to all who have supported us. It's been an extremely challenging time for everyone this past year. But we've battled through the storm & come out the other-side."

Teresa Kristata - Crystal Shack

"I am feeling both excited and emotional to finally open the shop doors once again on the 12th April. It's been the longest five months of my life!

"As a new business on the high street that first opened in only October 2020 - I only managed four weeks trading in total before being forced to close due to lockdown. I am now however feeling immensely proud and incredibly relieved to have survived the past five months closed. I cannot wait to welcome back the public and truly showcase my fragrance creations and finally get my business off the ground."

Rachel Holland - Miss Rachel Holland