Coastal Lincolnshire businesses still in survival mode despite lockdown relief
They're hoping for a bumper summer
Last updated 20th May 2021
Many business across Lincolnshire's coast say they made it through lockdown through the skin of their teeth and are still in survival mode.
With restrictions easing, a bumper weekend is expected.
There are hopes this summer will help them turn a financial corner.
Aeneas Richardson is a director at Magna Vitae, where they've had to cut jobs to stay afloat.
"The last year has been incredibly tough.
"We would normally welcome over 900,000 visits, last year we had 260,000.
"14 months ago we were employing around abut 190 people, we're now down to 85.
"As our business grows, so too hopefully will our local workforce grow again."
Kerry White is from Skegness Aquarium, they've had to keep spending money looking after the fish despite being forced to close.
"They have the best, prawns, mackerels, squids. They have treatments if they need it.
"We didn't know whether we were coming back to an aquarium, it's been very hard.
"We're getting the fish used to sounds again.
"We're plodding through, playing music, because they've had 6 months of total quiet."
Shaun Mulaney is from Skegness outdoor pool.
"The support that the local community has given us has been fantastic.
"Swimming is amazingly important.
"Not just the physical side of keeping your actual body fit, but also the mental side."
George Stocks is from high-wire adventure course, Altitude 44.
"It's just nice to have a bit of normality back, getting services open again.
"We have young kids from five and below on the junior course and we have people in their 60s and 70s having a go.
"There's definitely a demand for adrenaline activities on the coast."
Councillor Steve Kirk wants people to visit, but is urging them to stay safe.
"If we get the nice weather, then I can't see any reason why we won't have the busiest season ever.
"Come here, enjoy yourself, but bare in mind restrictions are in place."