HOTELIERS have spoken of their excitement and trepidation at the news that hospitality businesses will be allowed to open this Saturday July 5.

The 'new normal' could see hotels and guest houses having to limit the number of guests in dining rooms, among other measures, but local businesses are ready and raring to welcome people through their doors once again.

Marcus and Sara Edwards, who own Bridge House Hotel at East Street in Bridport, said they are "thrilled" to be reopening - and will welcome guests from July 8 onwards.

"We only took over at the Bridge house less than three years ago and (coronavirus) has been a huge financial blow - however safety remains paramount," Sara said.

"Whilst we are thrilled to be opening our doors again we will be running at reduced occupancy to ensure the safety of our team, our guests and our community. Although the cellar bar is remaining closed for now, we have exciting plans for its reopening and have developed the 'Potting Shed Bar’ in the hotel garden, along with a log burner, socially distanced tables and sofa area.

"This is for hotel guests and locals to enjoy, serving small bites and drinks - many of which are from local producers... after all who doesn’t love a pint by the river."

Over at West Bay's Haddon House Hotel, owned by Joanne and Paul Loud, there's a similar mix of nervous excitement.

Joanne Loud said: "We're looking forward to welcoming all our customers back in Saturday.

"I'm a little apprehensive as no one knows how it is going to go, but we have taken all the appropriate measures including hand sanitising points at all entrances, screen protection, our restaurant tables have been spaced two metres apart, and we are still going with the two metre rule to take extra caution, including carrying out a Covid-19 risk assessment.

"Our sister business, Chesil Beach Lodge, is fully booked as from this weekend. We feel this might be because they are all self contained apartments and customers feel more confident - we do hope residents support businesses through these difficult times."

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