Police patrolling Chichester on first weekend after lockdown restrictions lift

Chichester city centre sparked back into life on Monday (April 12), as shops, gyms, hairdressers and beauty salons were allowed to reopen, whilst restaurants and pubs welcomed customers outside. See our picture gallery hereIn a post on Twitter, Chichester Police said its neighbourhood policing team would be 'regularly patrolling the sunny city' today to 'support residents and businesses'.

It comes after the Government urged people to remain cautious when venturing out over the weekend to make the most of the sunshine and newfound freedom.

Speaking in Downing Street earlier this week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said, as lockdown restrictions ease, there would 'inevitably' be an increase in the number of Covid-19 cases.

'We are asking that you shop local and support our resilient and innovative traders'

Helen Marshall, vice chairman and CEO of Chichester BID, said witnessing the opening up of Chichester city centre, post the extended lockdown period, 'has been amazing'.

She added: "Seeing the streets full of customers enjoying the sunshine and enjoying the range of retail and hospitality you can find in our vibrant city centre was wonderful.

"Consistent and sustained footfall in our city centre will now be the life blood of our local businesses.

"Here at Chichester BID, we are asking that you shop local and support our resilient and innovative traders. They deserve our patronage now more than ever to be able to thrive beyond what has been the most challenging time in retail in recent history."