Customers in Barrhead raise their glasses as beer gardens are back in business

Among those to welcome back customers was Barrhead’s Cross Stobs Inn, where there was no shortage of people who were keen to raise their glasses.

Jonathan Wengel, manager of the pub, in Grahamston Road, told the Barrhead News: “We have been waiting for this for a long time.

“We were so disappointed when we were told that we couldn’t open going into phase two of the lockdown being eased but the sun is shining this week and we’ve got new gazebos, umbrellas, a new menu, new uniforms, new furniture and we’ve given the place a lick of paint.

“It’s almost like a grand opening for us. The beers are flowing.”

More than 120 customers booked a spot in the pub’s beer garden on Monday as the doors opened for the first time since the end of March, with staff also reserving a few tables for ‘walk-ins.’

“We’re nearly full for the weekend as well,” said Jonathan. “We would advise people who want to visit our beer garden to definitely book ahead because we are extremely busy.

“We look forward to seeing everyone again.”

Pubs and restaurants with beer gardens are only being allowed to reopen if they have put measures in place to reduce the risk of coronavirus spreading.

This includes following the Scottish Government’s guidance on social distancing.

Customers are also being asked to give their name and contact details to staff so they can be reached as part of the Test and Protect initiative should cases of Covid-19 arise.

However, some Barrhead residents have vowed to steer clear of beer gardens, claiming it is “too early” to reopen them while the virus still presents a significant risk to health.

Alan Skippen said: “I think it’s way too early. I hope I’m wrong but I’ve got a feeling that coronavirus is going to come back even worse this winter.”

Carly McGowan added: “As a local key worker, I definitely will not be taking that risk and, if I’m honest, I’m disappointed with the amount who will.”

Customers are due to be able to enjoy drinks and meals indoors at local pubs and restaurants from Wednesday, July 15, provided businesses have safety measures in place.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has confirmed the two-metre social distancing guidelines are being reduced to one metre for businesses in “specific sectors,” amid concerns they would go bust unless rules were relaxed.