Cosham high street sees businesses reopen after lockdown woes for some owners

Shop owners expressed relief to see the high street busier than it has been for months – as break-ins and building work has left some facing increased challenges in lockdown.

The owner of Franks Jewellers, Michael Jenkins, found his store trashed and watches worth thousands of pounds stolen on Wednesday March 18 – just days before lockdown began.

The businessman, who took over the shop 30 years ago, said: ‘We lost £2,100 in stock during the break-in, and we also had the repairs to pay for.

‘It was touch-and-go whether we could schedule the repairs before lockdown.

‘It was not ideal timing.’

But the businessman is hoping Cosham residents will rally around his store and other businesses along the high street: ‘I have been quiet surprised by the trade today.

‘I think it’s going to take a few weeks for the trade to build up – hopefully people will support their local businesses.

‘I hope people know it’s safer going to a smaller, local shop – keep people safe with a one-in and one-out system is more manageable.’

The owner of Flutes Cafe, Kathie Muirhead, is hoping hungry shoppers will visit and help her recoup the £2,500 she spent taking down a wall to ensure the cafe has more space for social distancing.

Kathie, who took over the cafe in May 2019, said: ‘It cost a lot of money to have everything taken away.

‘Trade has gone down a lot compared to normal.

‘I think it’s the fact customers cannot sit in.

‘If (trade) stays like this I will have to close – we will be shut in a few weeks.’

The business owner had provided tables and chair outside for customers after calling the police on 101 for lockdown guidance – only to be told later that she needed to remove them.

She said: ‘Three weeks ago, I called the police to check the guidelines and they said it was fine to have tables and chairs outside.

‘Last week, I was visited by the police and they said it was not allowed in the guidelines.

‘It’s been very confusing.’

For one shopper, it was good to see the high street beginning to once again fill up with people.

Cosham resident Tony Watson, 35, wearing a Union Jack face-mask, said: ‘It’s busier than I thought it would be.

‘It’s good to see to see things getting back to normal.’

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