Gloucester pub looks forward to end of social distancing as 'Freedom Day' postponed for a month
Coronavirus restrictions will be scrapped on 19th July
A pub and hotel in Gloucester says its looking forward to the end of coronavirus restrictions.
On Monday, Boris Johnson confirmed that the coronavirus restrictions in England, due to be lifted on Monday 21st June, will be continuing for another four weeks.
In a briefing from Downing Street, the Prime Minister has confirmed restrictions will stay in place until Monday 19th July.
The general manager of The New Inn on Northgate Street says they want to go back to normal as soon as they can.
Blair Charlton said: "Some of the changes have actually been a benefit. Table service has been interesting but in some ways its helped.
"The majority of our customers are older and have had their jabs now anyway.
"A lot of them are single blokes and like talking to to other regulars and I think that's been the biggest damaging aspect from a mental health point of view that they have been able to mix.
The easing of restrictions has been put on hold as the Delta variant, originally found in India, is increasing 64% week on week, causing hospital rates to increase across the country as well.
Blair continued: "I think there's always going to be an element of concern because we know Covid isn't going anywhere.
"I don't think we'll go back to total normality on the 19th but I reckon table service will be scrapped because there's not much harm someone standing at the bar and ordering a drink.
"Everyone is just dying to get back in and stand at the bar and talk to your mates and it will be down to bar teams to manage that in the best way possible.
Here's what's happening to restrictions from the 21st June in England
Weddings
The 30 guest limit will be removed. There will be no numeric restriction on guests at weddings, however the capacity of venues will be limited by social distancing. There must be table service at the wedding and you won't be able to have a dancefloor inside the venue.
Funerals
The guest limit on funerals will be scrapped as well. At the moment only 30 mourners are allowed, but from the 21st July the cap will be lifted and as long as social distancing is followed, there will be no limit.
Care homes
Care home residents will no longer need to self-isolate for 14 days after leaving for visits in most cases.
Theatres
Restrictions on going to the theatre will remain in place as they are now, so they can open but with with COVID-secure measures in place, including social distancing.
Pilot events such as Euro 2020 and some theatrical performances, will continue though, indicating some events will be allowed larger crowds than under the restrictions currently in place as part of the research programme.
Pubs and restaurants
Restrictions on pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants will remain as they are at the moment. Social distancing will have to be adhered to and there must be table service.
Nightclubs
Nightclubs will remain closed until at least 19th July
Home working
People are being asked to continue working from home where possible.