A MEMBER of the Swindon branch of the Campaign for Real Ale welcomed the return of Swindon's pubs.

John Stooke said it was 'not before time' but hoped people were responsible when they popped back in to their favourite boozer for a pint.

He said: "It's good news. People are champing at the bit to get going again and I hope they behave themselves.

"We don't want there to be a second wave and have everything shut again.

"I'm sure all the landlords will take strong measures to keep customers distanced and safe.

"It's been a bit messy and uncertain for a while but things are looking up.

"For some pub owners, their whole world is their customers, so lockdown must have been quite lonely for them and they'll be happy to see people again.

"I really miss the opportunity to have a beer in company, it's been a long time since that happened, so I'm looking forward to going to The Hop and The Glue Pot again, amongst others.

"It will be a busy weekend but there will be lots of people who won't want to go out to pubs and restaurants just in case they catch something, which is fair enough."