PICTURES: Bars, barbers and beauty salons in Chard re-open for business

As Government restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic were eased, hospitality premises became the latest to re-open their doors to customers, with many celebrating with a haircut and a drink on what was dubbed 'Super Saturday'.

On Sunday morning, despite reports of problems with people not adhering to social distancing rules in some parts of the country, Health Secretary Matt Hancock said the vast majority of people who went out on 'Super Saturday' were "doing the right thing" and following social distancing.

Speaking on Sky's Ridge On Sunday, Mr Hancock said: "Well I think that from what I've seen, although there's some pictures to the contrary, very, very largely people have acted responsibly."

He added: "So overall I'm pleased with what happened yesterday. It was really good to see people out and about and largely, very largely social distancing."

Mr Hancock said "the large proportion of people, the vast majority of people are, I think, doing the right thing".

He added: "But of course we'll take action when we need to when... if the minority break the rules."

On those who did not social distance, Mr Hancock said: "Well we'll of course keep this very closely under review, and you've seen for instance in Leicester but also in other places that we don't shirk from bringing in more drastic measures if that is what's needed to control the virus."

Matt Hancock said the Government's message to the public is "enjoy the new freedoms, but do so safely".

In Somerset, police said there were 'no significant incidents'.

"We’d like to thank all those who visited our towns and cities yesterday as licenced premises reopened for the first time in more than three months," said a police spokesperson.

"Plans had been put in place to respond to an increase in demand for our services but we’re pleased to say there were no significant incidents.

"Covid-19 still presents a deadly threat and we’re grateful to all those who continue to take a personal responsibility to help control the virus."

Here are some pictures from across Chard as businesses geared up to re-open:

OPEN: Hair Inspirations, Chard

OPEN: Holly Hewitt and Graham Barker serving at the Phoenix Hotel, Chard

READY: Steve Morgan and Louise Cross serving at The Choughs, Chard

OPEN: Hair Inspirations, Chard

OPEN: Customers Rich Bridge, Ally Rednall and Simon Druce at the Phoenix Hotel, Chard

OPEN: The Choughs, Chard

OPEN: Chard Barbers

OPEN: Sam Chappell, manager at The Cerdic, in Chard