BUSINESSES across Leigh and surrounding areas have been celebrating reopening their doors as the coronavirus lockdown was eased.

Non-essential retail, hairdressers, pub beer gardens and pavement cafes were among the premises to reopen on Monday as the coronavirus lockdown restrictions were relaxed.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged the nation to "behave responsibly" as life took another step back towards normality, with indoor gyms, swimming pools, nail salons and zoos also welcoming customers.

Businesses in Leigh have been sharing updates as they reopened their doors.

The Bowling Green pub on Manchester Road shared footage of its beer garden, ahead of Monday's reopening.

The pub said: "We are finally ready to reopen our outside area from tomorrow after a very long break!

"We are following government guidelines. New systems are in place that may take longer than usual. Your patience and understanding will be greatly appreciated. We will do everything we can to make your experience with us as positive as possible."

"We are excited to be reopening ours doors, even if it only means opening outside.

"I'm sure with everyone's help we'll be able to open indoors in May and hopefully get back to some normality in June!

"We look forward to seeing you soon!"

Meanwhile, Wigan and Leigh Hospice Shops in Hindley also welcomed the return to trading.

A facebook post said: "Our volunteers have been working hard getting the shops ready. We think Hindley is looking great."

A Tiktok video featuring staff was also shared on social media.

Party Central at Bradshawgate also shared a welcome message for customers.

And womenswear shop Baby Dolls has also been excited to open its doors again.