BUSINESSES have spoken of their delight to finally reopen their doors after months of closure while pubs, cafés and restaurants described their relief at being able to welcome customers back inside after Covid regulations eased.
A number of restrictions were eased yesterday as part of the government's third phase of its roadmap out of lockdown.
Groups of six or two households can now meet indoors, hospitality venues can serve customers inside, overnight stays can take place and indoor entertainment sites such as museums, cinemas and children's play centres can now reopen.
Geoff Middleton, owner of Muffins Coffeehouse, St Albans Street, Weymouth, took over the venue in September last year and said he is looking forward to consistency of trade now the rules have relaxed without being reliant on weather.
He said: "It’s a big relief.
"Because of the weather, some days, we’ve had to close due to the rain - so serving inside will give us consistency again."
This view is shared by Jasmine Jarvis, manager of TJ's Steakasaurus Eatery and Bar, on Custom House Quay.
She said: "It's a positive thing because we’re not reliant on good weather so that’s why it’s important to have the option."
As well as business owners and landlords, the public were also thrilled be able to be able to enjoy a pint inside their favourite pubs again.
Paul Johnson, who travelled from Wiltshire with his family for a pint in The Black Dog, said: "This is our regular when we visit Weymouth.
"It's uplifting to see people enjoying themselves again and to be able to sit inside a pub as restrictions ease. It's starting to feel normal again."
Debbie Bennett runs the pub, in St Mary Street, after taking over the business in March.
She said: "It's awesome to be able to serve customers indoors, but it has been very busy - which can be overwhelming.
"I run the pub with my daughter Heidi and we plan to extend the menu, but keep the venue traditional."
Although reopening of indoor service has lifted spirits, Keeley Adkins, the landlady at the Sailor's Return, in St Nicholas Street is urging customers to remain vigilant and follow the rules.
She said: "We're looking forward to a busy weekend.
"It's important the public follow the rules still in place - otherwise phase four of getting out of lockdown won't happen on June 21."
On Portland, The New Star Inn landlord Matthew Shearn said: "Pubs are one of those places for the community, which has been sorely missed.
"We're really looking forward to the summer because we're in a prime location."
Sharkys Fun Factory, on The Granby Industrial Estate, took to social media to describe the excitement at reopening the children's soft play centre, along with The Pavilion Theatre, which served refreshments throughout the day, and Fish & Fritz chip shop, which welcomed customers back inside to dine.
For some though, the wait to reopen continues, which is the story for Jackie Jones who runs Brunches on Maiden Street, Weymouth.
She said: "We’ve had a set back with our boiler, which is fixed now, but we’re planning to reopen on Wednesday.
"But we’re definitely excited to get things going on again."
Dorset Chamber chief executive Ian Girling said: “The easing of lockdown restrictions today is another very welcome boost for businesses in the county on the long journey out of the pandemic.
“It is a milestone moment and many in the hard-pressed sectors of hospitality, leisure and tourism will be relieved to see it go ahead as planned.
“We can all play our part by supporting our local businesses as much as we can while keenly observing the remaining restrictions as we count down the days and look forward June 21.”
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