These pictures give some idea of the buzz as restrictions lifted on April 12
1. Is that Santa?
Merry Christmas all the same... Photo: Kevin Brady
2. Clothes shops are among those which reopened
Queues for shops in South Shields on Monday. Photo: Kevin Brady
3. Welcoming back shoppers
Businesses are hoping footfall will return Photo: Kevin Brady
4. Happy shoppers
Gemma Parker and daughters Amber (10) and Holly (7) out shopping in South Shields on Monday. Photo: Kevin Brady