RESIDENTS were rejoicing after pubs were able to open on Saturday for the first time in three months.

Pubs were happy to welcome back punters after lockdown restrictions were eased.

Many pubs now have measures in place to ensure a safe day out with one-way systems, hand sanitiser points and apps to order drinks.

It was unknown how customers would respond to the restricted pubs, but many have enjoyed getting back to the boozer.

Spike Townsend visited the Lion in Earls Colne when it reopened.

He said: “I wanted to compliment the Lion in Earls Colne.

“They temperature checked everyone, recorded all details, had hand sanitisers at the entrance and you had to use an app to order, which was very easy to use.

“Very good social distanced tables made for a very relaxed and safe environment and the staff ensured compliance frequently in a very friendly manner.”

Many pubs jumped at the chance to reopen on the Saturday but some waited until later in the week to perfect their measures.

The Five Bells, in Colne Engaine, was one such pub and re-opened yesterday.

Landlady Caroline Lingley is confident the pub’s values and friendliness will endure despite the restrictions.

She said: “The pub’s been here for over 800 years, it’s seen wars and plagues and still survived to serve its community. We will pour pints and carry on.

“We have had to reduce our offer on food and drink but this is only as we take the first steps to get back to the new normal.”