Lifting the lockdown is taking place, very carefully, in Bedford Town Centre.

Essential businesses have never closed. But, now a few more are tentatively opening.

The message is clearly ‘Safety First’, as shown by council signs on St Paul’s Square, where market stalls selling basics have been open throughout.

Opposite “socially distanced” queues have been seen outside Wilkos and the Nat West Bank throughout the lockdown, and these continue.

Behind the scenes restaurants have been staying alive by delivering food or offering customer-collected takeaways. Amici is now promoting its Fogizac super clean to reassure customers of the safety of their premises in St Peter’s.

Long established Michael R. Peters of The Broadway have been running an important service for those needing fridges or other white goods.

For some the lockdown has even created opportunities with Cartridge Depot of St Loyes offering discounts for those using their computer printers whilst Working From Home. And Gallones of The Arcade have been delivering ice creams far and wide.

Now some offices are coming back to life with estate agents like Lane & Holmes welcoming clients - with social distancing.

Libby Lionetti at La Piazza on St Paul’s Square says: “We are now selling take-away coffees, no chairs and no congregating. It will be a slow process but we will rebuild Bedford.”

Love Bedford and Bedford Borough Council are co-ordinating their messages and activities to make sure people know what they can expect when visiting the town.

The latest information about shops and services can always be found here on our website, on our Social Media platforms or by phoning Tel 01234 404500.