ELPHICKS department store in West Street, Farnham is to reopen on Monday (July 13), owner Tudor Williams has announced.

A firm fixture of Farnham town centre for almost 140-years, speculation was rife after Elphicks remained closed as many other high street retailers reopened their doors in June.

But the much-loved Victorian department store has been busy in the background making the shop safe and training staff, and is now ready to welcome customers again.

Elphick's will initially open daily from 10am to 5.30pm, but the store's Heidi’s cafe will remain closed temporarily until it is deemed safe to reopen.

A newsletter sent out to customers on Thursday read: "We are delighted to announce we are re-opening on Monday, July 13.

"Our ongoing goal and mission is to provide our customers with a level of comfort that we are implementing measures to protect your safety and all of those around you at this time.

"Our safety measures are in place to keep everyone safe and for our loyal customers to feel confident that your safety is paramount to us when you visit our store."

Eddie Pearce, president of the Farnham Chamber of Commerce, added: “The Chamber is absolutely delighted that Elphicks is ready to welcome customers again. The much-loved department store has been a firm fixture of Farnham for almost a century-and-a-half, and is a huge draw for the town.

“The pandemic and ongoing social distancing measures have forced all businesses to make changes, and it is not a case of ‘one size fits all’. Elphicks have done it in a way, and at a pace that suits them, and it is a great news story for the town that they are to reopen after such a long time away."

Safety measures outlined in the store’s newsletter include:

* Customer numbers: The number of customers entering the store at any one time will be limited. When this limit is reaches, a member of the Elphicks team will ask customers to queue outside until there is space inside to shop.

* Restrooms: These are closed.

* Social distance by two metres: The store has pt signage and floor markings inside and outside of the store to make customers aware of the 2m distance rule, which it says is "required at all times".

* Shop alone or a maximum of two per party: Where possible customers are asked to shop unaccompanied, and customer parties are being limited to two people at any one visit.

* Restaurant closure: Heidi’s cafe will remain closed temporarily and will only reopen when it is safe to do so.

* Payment by card: All payments must be made by card. The contactless payment limit has recently increased to £45.

* Checkout screens: Perspex screens have been installed to provide added safety and protection. Customers are asked to refrain from touching them.

* Queuing: Floor markings have been introduced at all till points to help maintain a 2m gap when queuing up.

* Sanitising: Elphicks team have access to sanitisers whenever needed. They will be sanitising basket handles and card machines after every use. Other hand contact surfaces will be kept sanitised frequently and as required.

* Opening hours: Reduced hours of 10am to 5.30pm will be in operation, but customers are urged to check the website https://elphicks.co.uk in advance as these are subject to change.

* Signage and guidance: Posters will be displayed around the store reinforcing the importance of social distancing and sanitisation.

* Store announcements: Audio messages will be played to remind customers to socially distance.