PUBS in the Cardigan and Teifi Valley area are re-opening outdoors today as cases of new Covid-19 infections continue to tumble.

At Aberporth’s Morlan Guest House, managers Danni Phillips and Mark Morris have gone to considerable lengths to ensure they can safely accommodate as many customers as possible outside.

“We put gazebos out last year, but they were blown away in storms,” Danni told the Tivy-Side.

“This time we’ve had a local builder make us these lovely pergolas – they are much sturdier, have increased our overall seating area and hopefully won’t get blown away!

“Staff morale is very high and we can’t wait to welcome back customers when we open the doors at 5.30pm.”

Over at the Ship Inn, Tresaith, staff were back on duty and serving breakfasts from 9am.

“It feels really good to be back,” said general manager Holly Hooper. “Obviously, there is a degree of apprehension about all the procedures we have to follow, but on the other hand it’s nice to be finally able to provide something for the local community again.

“We’re very lucky to have this big outdoor area here at the Ship as a lot of hospitality venues north of Cardigan just don’t have that luxury.”

Ralph Findlay, Marston’s CEO, said: "It is a challenging time, but we are excited to see friends and family reunite and enjoy going out once again.”

The new rules from Saturday allow six people (not including children under 11 or carers) to meet outdoors.

People should observe social distancing from people from outside their household or support bubble when meeting others outside.

The rules for meeting indoors remain unchanged.