SHOPS across Wrexham and Flintshire are to re-open their doors today after First Minister Mark Drakeford announced the biggest unlocking of the coronavirus regulations to date.

The highly anticipated news that all non-essential shops in Wales will be permitted to re-open their doors from Monday, June 22, was confirmed by First Minister Mark Drakeford at the Welsh Government’s daily coronavirus press briefing on Friday.

Retailers will be able to resume trading if they can take all reasonable measures to comply with the physical distancing duty in Welsh law to reduce the spread of coronavirus and protect shop workers and shoppers.

The announcement was welcomed by Mold Town Council business and regeneration officer Joanna Douglass, but she also urged the public to follow the rules and to have patience.

She said: "I would please ask that members of the public respect the adaptions that are in place and also please have patience as this is uncharted territory for us all.

"If anybody has any comments on the re-opening process please do let me know, working in partnership with Flintshire County Council we are able to provide feedback which will inform amendments to the adaptions if required.

"This is very much about ensuring a pleasant experience for all whilst adhering to the requirements set out by local Government."

Councillor Terry Evans, Wrexham Council's lead member for economy (economic development and regeneration), also urged the public to shop in a safe and sensible manner.

Speaking of the announcement, he said: "This is fantastic.

"It is a real step in the right direction.

"This situation has had a massive impact and business owners have been very worried - they're desperate.

"I have been in business all my life and I have never seen anything like this."