Businesses have today spoken of their disappointment as Prime Minister Boris Johnson delayed ‘Freedom Day’ for at least four weeks.

In a press conference last night, Mr Johnson revealed the plan to lift all Covid restrictions on June 21 will be pushed back until July 19.

The announcement means a number of restrictions will remain in place including capacity limits for sports, pubs and cinemas, along with social distancing measures and masks - in a devastating blow to some businesses.

The delay has meant that nightclubs will not be permitted to reopen on June 21.

Parviz Marseh, manager of Actors nightclub on Maiden Street, Weymouth, is ‘disappointed’ that the goalposts for the lifting of lockdown restrictions has been moved, which comes at a big expense for him and his business.

He said: “Since we were able to reopen again in May, we have had to treat Actors like a pub instead of a nightclub and cover our two dancefloors in tables and chairs which isn’t how it is supposed to be.

"It has also caused lots of problems with staffing because we have to do table service and we need extra security to ensure everyone wears their masks and stays seated so we have had to hire more staff which is expensive. I was hoping that June 21 was going to be the day we could lift all restrictions but I guess not. I’m a little but disappointed but we will just have to wait a bit longer.”

Rosie Barrett, a wedding planner who organises events in Dorset, had been worried about the announcement as she revealed one couple had been forced to postpone their wedding twice, and that her suppliers such as florists, cake makers, caterers and photographers were suffering due to the restrictions, which she described as ‘devastating’.

But the Prime Minister announced weddings would be able to have more than 30 guests - the current limit - despite restrictions remaining in place.

Craig Oakes, president of Weymouth and Portland Chamber of Commerce, is sympathetic to those industries which are unable to completely reopen, but firm that we must all continue to follow the rules.

He said: "From a health point of view, there is an increase in infections so we have to stick to the guidance.

"However, I really feel for the people and industries that are still unable to operate, such as festivals and nightclubs. They must be absolutely furious.

"The knock-on effect of these businesses staying closed and damaging our economy is hideous."