Bradford Garden Centre's successful reopening

Management at a Bradford garden centre have thanked members of the public who have made the reopening of the centre safe and successful.

Like many garden centres nationwide, Tong Garden Centre opened its doors to the public last Wednesday after being closed to visitors for seven weeks.

Of the reopening, Tong's Managing Director Mark Farnsworth said: "Early trading has been good on every level. Our customers have been brilliant, everyone has adapted to the changes we have made in store really well and are respecting the new measures.

"Our team have been fantastic; we have tried to offer the same great service but two metres apart - we've had some great feedback and that has boosted us all. Our trading has been strong, whilst we have been in lockdown there has definitely been a build up of demand and we've been pleased to see so many customers return so quickly."

The centre also reports strong online sales, particularly of garden furniture, during lockdown and has launched a new Click and Collect service this week.

Commenting on Facebook, customer Chris Waters said: "I called first thing today for a gas bottle. All the staff I encountered, from those on the door, floor staff and till staff were extremely friendly, helpful and respectful of new guidelines. They're a credit to you and the work that has been put in to enable you to open."

Photograph: *Service with a smile from Dennis Keen *