James Sunderland joins shoppers in the sunshine at the Lexicon as shops reopen.

He said:
“It’s amazing, its like coming out of hibernation. It is massively important for the Lexicon to reopen, as long as it’s safe, I'm really happy to support it. We need to get the economy working.

“I think there’s been a big push on safety and I am confident that people who come shopping here in the Lexicon will be safe.

“For me I've missed the pubs, the cafes and the restaurants. I'm a big supporter of reducing 2m to 1m social distancing to enable the hospitality sector to come back into play. As soon as the medical experts and scientists say it is ok, I will be supporting it.”

James was interviewed by BBC Radio Berkshire Click here (3:34:40 – 3:37:12).

Cllr Marc Brunel Walker, Executive Member for Economic Development and Regeneration, said: “I know that many retail businesses have been keen to open in line with the Government’s social distancing rules and likewise many residents have been keen to visit shops that have been closed due to the pandemic.

“This is a really important step in our social and economic recovery from the initial wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, I’d urge everyone who is visiting our shopping areas to respect all the social distancing and hygiene measures in place. They’re in place for your safety and the safety of our community. 

“Please make sure you keep two metres apart from anyone outside your household at all times, shop alone if you can, wash your hands frequently and do not shop in any store if you are unwell or showing symptoms of COVID-19.”