Shropshire business owner says confusion over lockdown rules could hit tradespeople

Andrew Bowcott, who runs Ovenu Telford South, has been contacted by several clients looking to rebook appointments, having assumed he can no longer visit homes due to the current lockdown restrictions.

However, oven cleaning is one of several trades and services listed by the government that can operate if social distancing and hygiene measures are followed.

The 41-year-old from Doseley said: “I still have a busy diary, but some clients have been in touch asking if I am still open for business.

“There have been so many changes to the rules and regulations over the past few months, and I’m concerned that other local tradespeople may be suffering as a result.

“Cleaning services are permitted to work inside people’s homes and I’m sure there are quite a few ovens in need of a thorough spring clean – coupled with the fact that people are spending more time cooking and baking.

“I have been busy since coming back to work in May last year, but the latest lockdown has created genuine confusion over the rules surrounding working in people’s homes."

Andrew has also been busy donating some of his total sales towards Severn Hospice, handing over a cheque for £1,145 to the local charity last summer, and has again pledged to donate 10 per cent of his bookings for January and February.

Ovenu Telford continues to accept bookings at its discretion, with the strict stipulation that both parties observe the two-metre social distancing rule, along with guidelines on hygiene and cleanliness,

Andrew added: “My absolute priority is to keep both myself, my family and my clients safe."

Rik Hellewell, the founder and managing director of the Ovenu franchise, added: “Andrew has clear Covid-safe working procedures in place, which I hope offers great reassurance to his clients.”