Spend Of The Lockdown

Stores reopen as restrictions eased. Safe distancing to reassure shoppers. Queues outside high street favourites

- Ciara Phelan

BIG spenders hit the high street yesterday as thousands of retailers opened their doors after three months in lockdown.

Emotions ran high for some owners on Dublin’s Grafton Street while the queueing public beamed behind masks to get into their favourite shop.

Stores began staggering opening between 10.30am and 12pm.

Social distancing wasn’t an issue as shoppers followed guidelines with most people wearing face masks and using sanitisers distributed in stores.

There were notable queues at phone shops while gym gear, summer clothing, runners, and make-up were the most popular items.

Louise Hassan, from Royal Canal Park, queued at Lifestyle Sports to get her hands on a Liverpool jersey for her daughter, who she hasn’t been able to hug since December.

Louise broke her leg and knee and her daughter Caitlyn, 22, who has autism had to go into respite care.

She said: “I came in to get her a Liverpool jersey even though I’m a Manchester United fan so I’m disgusted it nearly killed me to buy it but that’s how much I love her.

“It’s been horrendous and I’m very worried about the resumption of day services for the special needs kids. The staff are fantastic at the centre but at the same time I can only see her from the doorway, it’s heartbreaking.”

Shoppers Sophie Ahmed, Lauren Ghirroueiz, Alanna McGrath and Amy McKeown said they were impressed with the hygiene in Zara.