Though the reaction to the lifting of lockdown has been met with a mixed response from political figures, businesses in Hexham have reacted largely positively to the news that they will be permitted to open at full capacity by the end of this month.

Theatres and cultural venues have suffered hugely during the Covid-19 pandemic, with many closing in other parts of the country.

Thankfully, Hexham’s Queen’s Hall Arts Centre has remained open and will be welcoming guests back from next month.

Katy Taylor, Artistic Director and Chief Executive, said: “Here at the Queen’s Hall we are working towards reopening in August.

“We want everyone to have a great time coming along to see wonderful performances in our theatre and brand new studio space.

“The changes announced will help us reopen and we will work hard to ensure the safety of our customers, community, volunteers and staff.

“The whole staff team and board of trustees are looking forward to the day we can throw open the doors and welcome you back into the Queen’s Hall. Not long now.”

The welcoming of lockdown restrictions has been echoed by Ailsa Dalton, manager at The Garden Coffee House on Hallgate, said: “It’s brilliant news, it’ll stop all the confusion that people are finding with the rules. I’m looking forward to it.

“I’ll be able to put the tables back that little bit closer together – but I do think people are still going to be cautious.

“More people are worried than I expected, but there’s more than enough room to cater to everyone.”

Despite reaching the end of the Government’s Roadmap, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has warned Brits not to think that this is “the end of Covid”. People will be encouraged to use their personal judgement when it comes to the virus.