Port Erin is getting back in business, with some adjustments.

In late March - even before lockdown - the village was a spooky sight: deserted streets and shuttered shops, with only a few essential outlets open.

As restrictions are gradually eased, we called in to see how businesses are adjusting to the so-called ’new normal’.

The Whistle Stop coffee shop at the railway station is now welcoming customers for outdoor dining. With no trains running the cafe has the benefit of space: a one-way system is in operation indoors and there is room to keep your distance on the platform.

Owner Julie Goldie said that there have been plenty of customers: ’We’ve been really surprised, we’re very lucky to have this kind of support.’

Cafe customer Peter Barlow noted how the fine weather has brought crowds of locals: ’It’s been so busy on the beach that it’s like the old tourist season back in the 1970s’, he said.

’The only difference is the social distancing.’

Among them was the King family, who had travelled from Ramsey in their campervan and couldn’t resist an ice cream on the beach.

’It’s so nice to be able to do this again, now that the campsites are open’, said dad Chris King.

’If you’re careful, there’s no reason not to have a ’staycation’ and enjoy the island.’

Other village staples, like Erin News on the high street, have reopened their doors with modifications including a one-way system, a sanitising station and screening across the counter.

The newsagents had a very seasonal problem when the lockdown was imposed, explained co-owner Chas Raistrick: ’We were full of Easter eggs when we shut the doors!

’We delivered them everywhere and managed to sort everyone out for Easter.

’People really appreciated that’, he said.

The biggest adaptations are found in the hairdressers and salons, which were finally allowed to reopen last week with strict precautions in place.

Port Hair Inn is open only by appointment and boasts a sanitation station, strict hygiene, limited numbers and PPE for both staff and customers.

’Everyone has been very compliant and understanding about the new procedures’, explained stylist Lorna Stringer.

The team is encouraging their clients to add reviews to their Facebook page to reassure any customers who might be worried about coming back.

’It’s nice to be back and feel like we’re part of the community again’, she added.