It is a big day for businesses up and down the country, with pub beer gardens, hairdressers, shops and gyms reopening for the first time since the turn of the year.

Among those who cannot wait to welcome customers back is Simon Foxen, a 56-year-old who has seen his barber shop closed for 35 of the last 52 weeks due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Simon Foxen Barber Shop has been on Hart Road, Thundersley, for 28 years and the owner is relieved to be able to put money back in the till.

Simon, who was brought up in Basildon, said: “It’s like reaching a light at the end of the tunnel. We were closed for the first and second lockdown periods and then we were made to shut again when the third lockdown kicked in on December 19.

“My clients are like friends and it will be nice to see them again. I have been missing them all and, judging from those I have seen in the streets, they cannot wait to get their hair cut again.”

The Covid-19 crisis has resulted in thousands of businesses going bust and sadly leaving our streets.

But Simon refused to allow his barber shop, which is decorated with Marvel superheroes and villains, to go to the brink.

Ready for his next client - customers sit in Simon Foxens unique Joker barber chair Picture: CARRIE MILLS

Ready for his next client - customers sit in Simon Foxen's unique Joker barber chair Picture: CARRIE MILLS

Simon, who also heads up the Thundersley Superhero Alliance, added: “It’s been the hardest year for the business because of having to close.

“I had a health scare in 2009 where I thought I would have to shut the shop, but I bounced back.

“The pandemic has resulted in my forward plans having to be changed but I would work 24 hours a day to keep the barber shop open. Closing the doors was not an option for me.

“We’ve planned for the next few years now, taking into consideration what we’ve been through, and hopefully that will stand us in good stead.”

Read more:

Simon’s loyal clients will be flocking back to the barber shop in their droves.

He admitted: “I’m fully booked up for the next month.

“People are desperate for their haircut and I still bump into people in the streets where they ask when they can book an appointment.

“It feels like I’m opening the shop for the first time and it’s a fantastic feeling.

“I’ve had a few sleepless nights over the last year, but today is a good day.”