Pubs, bars, barbers and hairdressers in Powys re-opened their doors for the first time since the lockdown began in March.

The handful of businesses that re-opened in Newtown's town centre today (Monday) say it went better than expected as they fixed lockdown hair disasters and welcomed regulars back for a socially-distanced pint.

Sylvia Olba said there were queues of people outside her barber shop on Shortbridge Street this morning.

"It's been a great day. It's like Christmas day for us," she said. "It's very nice to see my lovely customers again".

County Times: Sylvia Olba and customer Jim Hughes.Sylvia Olba and customer Jim Hughes.

Over at the Elephant & Castle Hotel, duty manager Beth Jones said it's been a long wait to reopen.

"We've all been working hard towards this day," she said. "Since we've opened, the phone lines have been hectic."

Changes include a booking system, hand sanitiser at the entrance, a new one-way system and a marquee in the garden for customers to enjoy a socially-distanced drink.

Beth said: "We're lucky to have all this space to do this because a lot of businesses haven't got the space to open outdoors.

"It's obviously completely different. We're up for the challenge and we're doing our best to change and adapt to make sure everyone is safe".

County Times: Jessica Walters Davies and Nicola at The Lion in Newtown.Jessica Walters Davies and Nicola at The Lion in Newtown.

Jessica Walters Davies, landlady of The Lion pub in Newtown, welcomed more than 100 people on the first day of reopening.

"I honestly didn't know what to expect. It was obviously a big decision. We thought we'd give it a go, and it's turned out better than expected.

"It's been brilliant for a Monday. Everyone has been very nice and relaxed, just wanting to come for a drink."

Montgomeryshire MP Craig Williams said it was "great" to see many people supporting local businesses while maintaining social distancing in Welshpool town centre.

"Very important we all do our part to help local businesses as they begin to re-emerge from lockdown," he said.