TWO new stores have launched in The Mall Blackburn this week, bucking national trends which have seen outlets forced to close due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Just Cuts is a unisex hair salon that allows customers to reserve a place in the store's queue through the company’s app, while Minoti markets fashionable clothing to children up to the age of six.

Both are already proving popular with shoppers.

General manager at The Mall Blackburn Loraine Jones said: “As we come to the end of the most surreal spring and summer in living history, we are delighted to be sharing some good news.

“Just Cuts has chosen Blackburn as its first store in Lancashire and we are sure that they will get a very warm welcome from shoppers.

“Minoti is coming back to The Mall after a short period away and is moving into a prime position, much larger than its previous store, next to Primark.

“Since lockdown eased across the country, more and more shoppers are returning and it’s wonderful to see people enjoying themselves again.”

Most of the Mall’s stores, including Just Cuts and Minoti have returned to normal trading hours of 9am to 5.30pm, while social distancing and extra health and safety precautions remain in place.