PICTURES: Cheers to return of beer gardens as Dingwall toasts a coronavirus milestone
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DINGWALL pub-goers grabbed a slice of sunshine with their pints this week as the return of beer gardens was cheered.
A number of businesses took the opportunity to trial outdoor spaces and re-open beer gardens sing social distancing guidelines introduced by the Scottish Government to try and help the hospitality industry make a safe and phased return.
For some it was the first pub-poured pint in 105 days, not that anyone was counting.
The resumption of service follows England last weekend and was a more genteel affair than some of the rowdy scenes witnessed south of the border over last weekend.
The Caley bar was amongst the first to reopen followed by Gudgees and the Ross-shire Club.
Each venue welcomed guests under strictly controlled physical distancing and new hygiene rules with orders being delivered to tables.
Caledonian proprietor William Deas was on hand this week ensuring that everything went according to the guidance set out by the Scottish Government and said he was delighted to be able to reopen and serve the public.
He said: “It is great to reopen and have the opportunity to serve people, that is the way it should be and looking forward to welcoming people back to drinking inside too so long as the weather is good we can provide a service as do the other hostelries in town.
“It is a bit tricky with the social distancing inside but we will see what the requirements are for next week if we are allowed to open and we will try our best to adhere to all the regulations and keep the crowds to a manageable level.
“I think it will be good for the town, for the High Street.”
Ally Lamont said: “Just getting out and seeing other people is nice, seeing other people’s faces. It is so nice to be able to get the craic but still keep your distance at the same time, still saying safe.
Carolyn Mackinnon said: “Guinness just tastes far better in the pub and the sun is semi-shining so it is all good, they need to get up and running anyway – just getting out is enough at this stage.”
What have you missed most during lockdown? Is your business opening up? Drop us an email to hector.mackenzie@hnmedia.co.uk
