Shoppers are flocking back to the West End in Plymouth to treat themselves now that lockdown restrictions have been eased.

The West End was packed in the first week after non-essential shops were allowed to re-open with queues outside barber shops and families and friends gathering for the first time for months to have a bite to eat or drink at the many cafes and bars with outdoor tables.

Shoppers will have noticed some significant changes since they last visited with a colourful makeover for Frankfort Gate now almost complete and a number of new businesses opening their doors.

Rise Bakery is now open in Frankfort Gate, next to the popular Lisbon Bakery and Restaurant, and is already attracting lots of interest and admiring comments.

Rise is a new concept from Rick Stein-trained restaurateur Lloyd Inwood, specialising in delicious pastries and sourdough bread, along with Fairtrade organic coffee.

Just round the corner in Cornwall Street is Fry’s Farm Shop, selling a wide range of local produce including fruit and vegetables, jams, chutneys, pickles and honeys.

And in New George Street, Daamn Good Bakes, a speciality cake shop has re-opened after launching just before the latest lockdown.

Plymouth Market is bustling again and, as well as a huge variety of independent and specialist shops there’s a huge choice of great tastes from around the world and plenty of cafes offering outdoor dining.

So, if you haven’t been to the West End for a while now’s the time to take a fresh look and support your local businesses.