Shoppers flock to Scarborough high street as retailers reopen across the town centre

That is a 40 per cent increase in customers to the centre compared to the same Monday in 2019. The centre was shut this time last year.

Brunswick Manager Sue Anderson Brown said she was delighted so many people had visited.

“There has been a real feel-good vibe around Brunswick,” she said.

“It's fantastic and it's also positive news for the town centre.”

The shopping centre team had pre-empted being busy and put a host of safety measures in place including extra security and housekeeping staff.

At no time did the shopping centre exceed its capacity levels.

There were queues reported outside Debenhams, opening for its final 70 per cent off clearance sale before it closes for good.

The shopping centre has been decorated with colourful streamers in tribute to the NHS but no music is being played as a mark of respect to the Duke of Edinburgh.

Other shops in the town centre have also been busy.

Jackie Debenham, Manager of Weird Fish on Westborough, said: “It was steady but it seems busier today.

“Some people were a bit cautious but I think everyone was pleased to be able to come back.

“There seemed to be a lot of tourists here yesterday.”

Joanne Purvis, Supervisor at The Works on Westborough, said: “We had a good day. People were definitely pleased to be back.”

Shops classified as “non-essential” by the Government were told they must shut at the start of January amidst rising coronavirus rates across the country.

It was the third time in less than a year they had been told they had to close.

All retailers were told they could re-open from yesterday.

Social distancing measures should still be adhered to and face coverings must be worn inside shops.