Essex County Council’s trading standards department has had reports of nail salons and other beauty businesses that are planning to re-open on Saturday July 4 against Government guidelines.

The authority's trading standards team say any such business that does so can be fined. The county council posted on Facebook to warn firms about the dangers of this.

A spokesman said: “Essex Trading Standards has received reports of nail salons and other beauty businesses who intend to re-open on July 4, against government guidelines. We know that it’s been incredibly difficult for the last few months, but doing this could not only put staff and customers at risk - it could result in a crippling fine as well.

“Beauticians, nail salons and cosmetic procedure providers must not re-open on July 4. Opening before it is permitted could result in prosecution and an unlimited fine.”