Gainsborough pubs ready to welcome back customers

As the next step in Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s roadmap out of lockdown hospitality venues will be allowed to serve people outdoors from April 12.

Eddie Gershon, spokesman for the Sweyn Forkbeard, said: “We are very much looking forward to welcoming back staff and customers, they have been away from the pub for a long time

“The last year has been difficult, opening and closing/various initiatives from the government. But when the pub was open staff worked hard and customers enjoyed being there.

"The staff have been working hard to ensure the garden is in top order for the re-opening.”

When the pub re- opens on April 12, it will be outside only, with customers allowed inside from May 17.

Customers will be encouraged to order and pay on the Wetherspoon app, but those that don’t have an app can order with a member of staff at the table and pay them direct.

Anyone who needs to use the toilet can go into the pub to do so and test and trace will be in operation and there will be hand sanitisers in place.

A spokesman from The Ship Inn said: “We are very much looking forward to seeing everyone return back and see some new customers.

"Customers can expect government guidelines of tables of six outside in hopefully a warm, friendly atmosphere.

"We are very excited to opening back up as hospitality has been treated unfairly with huge losses to many businesses.”

Other pubs in Gainsborough have made the decision to wait until May 17, before they re-open.

A statement on the Lincolnshire Otter website said: “We're excited to be re-opening on May 17.

"Booking is not essential, though we would recommend you book in advance.

“Please note we may need to vary our opening hours and food service times given the time of year and the unpredictable nature of our great British weather.

“To get the most up-to-date notices on our re-opening, keep an eye on our Facebook page.”

And The Canute in Silver Street, Gainsborough, will also be re-opening its doors on May 17.