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Pub Beer Gardens Are Finally Open Today In England

Pub Beer Gardens Are Finally Open Today In England

The day we've all been waiting for...

Amelia Ward

Amelia Ward

The day we've been waiting for has finally arrived, pub beer gardens are now officially able to open in England as of today (12 April).

As part of the Prime Minister's roadmap out of lockdown, beer gardens are able to serve customers as long as they are made 'Covid-safe' and have social distancing measures in place.

PA

It also means that non-essential shops, gyms, hairdressers and beauty treatments can all start up again too.

In the Prime Minister's roadmap, he set out four stages for reopening and restarting the country after this third - and probably worst - lockdown that we've all been in for so damn long.

Step one began on 8 March when the schools could open again.

Then from 29 March, groups of up to six people - or two households - were able to meet up outdoors to socialise, putting meet-ups in gardens and parks back on the menu.

Now, pubs and restaurants are allowed to serve food and drink outdoors from 12 April - today.

PA

And one boss looks to be putting himself in the running for gaffer of the year by giving all his staff the day off to make the most of it.

Chris Donnelly, chief executive of digital marketing company Verb Brands in London, wants his staff to enjoy themselves as England eases lockdown restrictions.

As well as giving them all today off to have a bit of R&R, Donnelly also reckons it will give the economy a much-needed boost with his staff heading out to splash their cash at bars and shops.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Donnelly said: "It has been a horrid time for so many people across so many sectors.

"The pubs and shops are opening up after months and I just want employees to know how much they are appreciated and to enjoy this day for themselves, not spend it sat in the office.

"Landlords and high street retailers need a boost too so I'm happy for my lot to spend the day supporting these businesses.

"And if they want to spend the day in bed - then good for them."

What a legend.

PA

The next stages of the four step lockdown are still to come.

Step Three will begin no earlier than 17 May and will allow groups of up to 30 to meet outdoors, cinemas to reopen and organised indoor sport to recommence. International travel will also be allowed.

Step Four will begin no earlier than 21 June, at which point there will be no legal limits on social contact, enabling nightclubs to reopen and large events to go ahead.

The next steps are dependent on cases and the R number, but today is the start of the most anticipated summer ever - all we need now is the weather to come through for us.

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, lockdown