More stallholders are returning to Grantham and other markets across South Kesteven following the Government decision to ease some lockdown restrictions.

Shoppers are being asked to observe the two-metre social distancing guidelines, and signs and barriers will be in place to help.

Traders selling all goods and wares are now able to attend.

SKDC reports Bourne Market had eight stalls today (Thursday, June 4) and expects five on Saturday.

Stamford will have 40 stalls on Friday (June 5); and Grantham will have 18 on Saturday (June 6).

More are expected over the next two to three weeks as traders restock.

Markets selling fresh food only have continued in all three towns throughout the Coronavirus outbreak.

Stamford's, which have been held in High Street, will return to their normal location in Broad Street.

SKDC's Cabinet Member for Culture and Visitor Economy, Cllr Rosemary Trollope-Bellew, said: "We fully appreciate the value markets bring to our communities. Clearly customers do as well, with queues forming at Bourne Market from 8am today.

"We were determined that our markets should remain open to offer residents the choice of stocking up on fresh fruit and veg and other food, as well as to support traders.

"This was made possible thanks to traders, shoppers and council staff all working together and behaving responsibly and respectfully towards each other.

"Like many other businesses, traders have had a very difficult time and I am delighted that we can now open our markets to more of them offering a wider variety of goods. I would encourage people to back them.

"Public safety is, of course, paramount, and the experience we have gained by keeping the markets running has proved invaluable. Our queueing system for example, which conforms to social distancing guidelines, has worked successfully and I believe shoppers will work with us to ensure that continues."

Stallholders have been advised to follow Government guidelines on hygiene and will be cleaning wearing appropriate and using hand sanitiser. Customers are asked to use contactless payment methods if possible.