PEOPLE across Runcorn and Widnes will be able to go to pubs, cafes and restaurants on Saturday for the first time since March.

Government has issued advice to venues to reconfigure seating, minimise self-service, cancel live acts and stagger arrivals.

In addition, Halton Borough Council and Cheshire Police have been working with licensees to ensure they are ready to open - but the safety of the re-opened venues depends on the customers.

People are being encouraged to look out for signs and instructions that venues have put in place to ensure the safety of customers.

Many pubs are only accepting people who have booked places due to lower than normal capacities.

Drinkers may be asked to reserve a seat in stripped down pubs to allow for social distancing.

Halton Borough Council's Executive Board Member for Community Safety, Cllr Dave Cargill, said: "We want people to ease out of lockdown, but at the same time keep themselves and others in our community safe.

"It is important to remember that Covid-19 has not gone away, so people must follow social distance guidance, wash their hands regularly and follow the measures that pubs, cafes and restaurants have put in place for their safety.”

Inside, one-way systems will be used to ensure people do not cross paths. The Government guidance also outlines that doors should be left open, where appropriate, to reduce touchpoints.

As well as following these measures, people are also being urged to drink responsibly and to remember social distancing at all times – especially as they relax and enjoy time with friends in familiar surroundings.

Adhering to social distancing is vital in reducing the spread of the virus. When sitting inside pubs or restaurants, people will be allowed to gather at a social distance in groups of six, with a maximum of two households involved.

This six-person limit will also apply to pub gardens, although friends from more than two households will be permitted to socialise.