AS the Prime Minister announced his roadmap for non-essential shops, salons and hairdressers share their excitement on finally having a date to welcome customers back.

The government announced the four-stage roadmap out of lockdown to the nation on Monday evening.

From March 8, children will be able to return to school while March 29 will see outdoor sports return and the rule of six.

But April 12 is the date beauty salons will rejoice for, as all non-essential shops will be able to open.

This also includes, public buildings, indoor leisure facilities and restaurants.

Ihklaq Hussain at the Prince Hair Salon in Blackburn said: “We are looking forward to it and as long as it happens slowly but surely and in the right way.

“We don’t want a fourth lockdown of course, otherwise we are happy with the roadmap of when we can open, we just don’t want to go back and forth.

“We are feeling fantastic and excited to be back in April and will start going into the salon to make the preparations nearer to the date.

“It’s been difficult, but I’ve found plenty of time to do many things around the house, now we just can’t wait to get back and cutting hair.”

Another joyful salon is Beauty Lounge 4 U in Blackburn, specialising in massage treatments, facials, as well as eyelash extensions and waxing.

Owner Viktoria Vorobjova said she was excited to see her regulars but understood the need for a wait.

She said: “I am not even too concerned when we open but that we open safely for people but of course I will be happy when we do open.

“It was not that bad for me personally during this time, because I could get help from the government, but I know others in the industry have suffered.

“I miss work and I miss my salon and cannot wait to be back, but I understand why we had to close for so long and there is a little wait.

“The last time we were coming out of lockdown, I had many customers ring me and ask to be booked in so I know we will be very busy when we open again.”

But Make-up artist Leanne Jackson is not feeling as positive.

She said: “It would be good if salons could open in April but I am going to hold my breath, because we have been promised so many things before.

“I do wedding Make-Up predominantly, and the goalposts just keep changing, even know I have brides who just don’t know what is happening.

“Even when April comes, the brides will change dates, but I know this is good news for some people. But for me, I still won’t have work then.”