First pints pulled in Northampton at breakfast time as pubs across town given the green light to open outdoor spaces

Some of the first punters through the doors to grab a pint in the town centre this morning were those queuing up to get into the Cordwainer in The Ridings which opened from 8am.

One customer said: “We went down to the barbers but there was a queue so we thought what next and came from a pint.

"It’s been emotional as we just miss this banter every Monday. It would be nice with better weather though.”

A group of workers added: “We’ve been working nights and finished at six this morning, so we’re straight on the beer and letting it steam.

"We’re from East Yorkshire and we’ve been doing 12 hour nights for the last six nights working on a new hospital building so we need to get back into days.

"Northampton is quite a nice place.”

Another pub-goer continued: “It’s great to be out and to see people. We’ve missed the company the most. I’ve been waiting for this all week, all month really.”

These stunning pub gardens and outdoor dining spaces in Northamptonshire are open from TODAY