Bars and Barbers set to reopen

The town's publicans and hairdressers are preparing to welcome their first customers in over three months.

Many of the town's hostelries will be opening their doors tomorrow, although drinkers and those looking forward to their first pub grub in 15 weeks will have to book first. 

McMullens have announced that most of their bars and pubs will be open, including The Woopack, White Hart and Practitioner, from noon until 11pm.

Managing director of the Hertford brewer said: "For us it's very much about provining a safe environment for our guests, many of whom have been locked up at home for many months and are looking forward to socialising with friends and family."

Folly Island free house The Barge will also open from noon, whilst Cinnabar, The Six Templars and The Blackbirds will also be serving.

Visitors should check pub websites for Covid-19 related terms and conditions, including details of how to book.

Some restaurants will also be opening, with Pizza Express resuming business on Thursday 9th July and Il vino on Tuesday 7th July. However, Cafe Rouge will not re-open, following the collapse of the Casual Dining Group yesterday.

The town's hairdressers are also looking forward to a busy weekend, with Mick's Barbers opening at 7:30am. As with pubs and restaurants, barbers are only serving pre-booked customers, with bookings taken either online or through dedicated apps.

Commenting on the reopening of more businesses, Cllr David Williams, Leader of Hertfordshire County Council, said: "We can go out this weekend for a drink or meal but please remember to stay safe and look out for one another. Keep washing your hands, keep your distance, get tested if you show symptoms and continue to follow government guidance around self-isolating.

"The challenge from COVID-19 remains, but I know that together we will come through this."

Linda Haysey, Leader of East Herts Council and Chair of the Community Reassurance Cell of the Local Resilience Forum, said: "It’s great news that the hospitality sector will be throwing open its doors from this weekend, and I would encourage everyone to keep supporting our local businesses at this difficult time. “Businesses across Hertfordshire are making every effort to become COVID-secure to protect their staff and allow customers to return safely as lockdown measures are eased. However, we cannot be complacent as coronavirus continues to circulate in our communities, so please stay alert and follow public health advice."