"WE CAN'T wait to finally reopen."

That's the message from Dorset business owners as they prepare to welcome back customers from May 17.

On Monday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the country could take the third step on the 'roadmap' out of lockdown which will see indoor hospitality reopen, including hotels, hostels, B&Bs, cinemas, theatres and museums, and means that friends and family can hug and mix indoors.

Dorset businesses, some of which have been closed since the country was plunged into a third national lockdown at the beginning of January, are thrilled that they will be able to throw open their doors and welcome customers inside.

Merlin Entertainments will fully reopen Weymouth Sealife on Monday. The park's outdoor areas have been open since April 12, but bosses are delighted they can invite guests inside to see their underwater creatures.

Operations manager Nathan Barnett said: "We can't wait to finally reopen on Monday, May 17 and get back to doing what we do best - creating magical experiences for our guests."

Eric Tavernier, owner of Weymouth seafood restaurant Les Enfants Terribles, has taken to social media to express his joy at being able to reopen for indoor dining. He wrote: "It’s official, Monsieur Boris has announced that we will be able to welcome you back inside our beautiful restaurant from next Monday. Literally, we cannot wait. See you all soon, in or out."

Weymouth Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre and Blandford Leisure Centre, both run by Everyone Active, will restart group exercise classes on Monday.

Rob Slocombe, contract manager at Everyone Active, said: "We are delighted to be able to safely resume group exercise classes in our centres.

"Aside from the obvious physical benefits, this will be a huge boost for mental health and wellbeing in Dorset."

Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling is pleased the Dorset economy can receive a 'shot in the arm' as businesses reopen, but has warned residents must remain vigilant while coronavirus remains in circulation.

He said: "The lifting of the latest phase of restrictions is a long-awaited milestone on our journey out of the pandemic.

"Clearly, it its great news and will be very welcome among many businesses in the leisure, tourism and hospitality sectors but it should also provide a shot in the arm for our local economy generally.

"The downgrading of the Covid-19 alert level from four to three and recent figures from the Bank of England forecasting the fastest economic growth in 70 years in 2021 also give cause for optimism.

"However, we must remain vigilant and guard against complacency as the virus is still in circulation and the ending of all government support is still to come.

"It is critical that we all act responsibly and abide by the remaining restrictions so we can unlock the next phase of the roadmap on June 21 and really start firing on all cylinders in Dorset."