THE owner of a beauty salon in Hereford was "relieved" when she was given the green light to reopen in the latest easing of lockdown restrictions in England.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden announced beauticians, tattooists and tanning salons can reopen from Monday – while gyms, indoor pools and other sports facilities can open their doors from July 25.

However, services that involve work in the highest risk zone, the face, will not be allowed – such as face waxing, eyelash treatments and facials.

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Amy Card, who owns Pure Emporium – an award-winning health, beauty and hair salon in Hereford's Grandstand Road, said she has been on "tenterhooks" during every Government announcement as she waited to reopen.

"I felt so relieved to finally see the light at the end of the tunnel," said Ms Card, who founded Pure Emporium in 2013.

"It has been a very daunting time for all businesses. We have been on tenterhooks at every announcement, awaiting a date for what has felt like forever, and to finally know we can get back to doing what we love is wonderful news.

"Considering the nature of the beauty industry and how we will always work to the highest of standards regarding hygiene, I feel fully confident that we will be able to offer a relaxing and welcoming environment with client and staff safety at the forefront.

"It’s been a crazy four months, and one that no business owner could have ever prepared for. I have been very clear throughout lockdown that we, at Pure Emporium, will only return to work when the government believes it safe to do so and it’s an amazing feeling that now is that time.

"My heartfelt thoughts are with all those who have been affected."

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Ms Card added there is currently more than 250 clients on a waiting list for an appointment, but when the beauty salon reopens they will be taking cleanliness extremely seriously.

She said the large premises will make social distancing easier, staff will wear personal protective equipment (PPE) and large perspex screen have been installed at the reception desk as well as at all the manicure stations.

"Our number one priority will be to offer a safe environment for clients to relax and enjoy some much awaited and well overdue time out and by introducing these measures we are confident this can be achieved," she added.

All areas and equipment will also been cleaned and sanitised between each client.