Pub landlords in Thornbury are looking forward to getting back to business following this week’s announcement that they would be allowed to reopen.

Pubs and restaurants can reopen from July 4 following a relaxing of the 2m rule.

“It’s been an awful long time,” said Mark Wilson, who runs The Malthouse with Julie Walker.

Furniture has been moved around and a one-way system introduced ahead of the pub’s reopening next Saturday.

Speaking about the changes to the 2m rule Mark said: “That will help us out. At 2m there was no point opening really.

“We are going to need to rely on people using common sense.

“They need to be responsible, The guidelines need to be followed.

“We want to maximise the outdoor space.

“Hopefully the weather holds. We’ll see what next weekend brings.”

“I am sure people will be relieved to get out and have a pint.”

The Swan, ran by Sandra Davies, will also be reopening on July 4.

“It’s obviously welcome. The pub is not just my business it’s my home,” she said.

Sandra has been delivering meals to the community throughout lockdown, including 124 on Father’s Day.

“I’ve continued working seven days a week. I’ve carried on cooking as normal.

“It was hard work but it kept my mind occupied.

“Mentally I need people around me as that’s the way I am.

“A lot of the people we get in The Swan are older and they like talking people.”

When the pub reopens it will have an extended outdoor area as well as tables and chairs out the front.

“There are lots of things people will have to get accustomed to.

“I think there’s going to be a lot of learning on both sides as it’s going to be totally new,” said Sandra.

The Anchor Inn will also be reopening next Saturday.

A post on the pub's Facebook page stated: "Heather, Dave and the team are getting The Anchor spick and span and safe for you all when we reopen on July 4."