A week ago a sense of normality was resumed to some degree as lockdown rules were eased across the country.
Included in this was the reopening of pubs and areas of the hospitality sector as the public enjoyed the weather as well as a few pints down the local.
Among the venues that opened its doors for the first time in five months was The Dog at Pentrich, in Derbyshire.
Owner Adam Jones said preparation had been underway well ahead of the reopening which took place on Friday.
He said: “There were some stressful times running up to the opening. It felt like we were chasing our tails to get everything ready in time, but thankfully we’ve managed to and once we did it was great to be back open.
“All the staff were thrilled as I believe welcoming them back to work has helped people with their mental health.”
Despite The Dog at Pentrich having opened to the public once more, only beer gardens and outdoor venues are currently permitted under Government rules, meaning a limit on capacity for how many customers the pub could serve at once.
Jones said: “It has made it quite tricky and has reduced the number of people we can serve by at least 50%.
“This has put a strain on moving forward as a business and for many businesses it is very scary.”
Financially, the hospitality sector is struggling to keep afloat with the financial implications the pandemic has had on businesses.
“We’ve been hugely affected,” said Adam. “Cost on all sectors have shot up, it’s going to be a very touchy couple of years for small restaurants and pubs.”
It is expected that pubs and restaurants will be able to operate indoors once more from May 17 with the rule of six to continue, and track and trace required on arrival.
Ordering at the bar will remain barred, and hospitality will continue with table service only.
People will also be required to wear masks whilst not sitting at their table, unless they are exempt.
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