A PUB which had relaunched after a major refurbishment just one week before the first coronavirus lockdown in March last year is getting set to reopen.

The Golden Lion on Church Road, Rainford had launched after investment on Thursday, March 12 last year, just eight days before hospitality venues were ordered to close for the first time under coronavirus restrictions.

After more than a year of constant ever-changing restrictions to tackle the pandemic and three lockdowns later, the pub is looking forward to getting back to normality in the months ahead.

The pub is set to reopen on Monday, April 12 outdoors under the coronavirus lockdown exit roadmap schedule and thanks to a planning approval for a marquee in the beer garden, as reported in the Star in March, is looking forward to providing an English summer in the beer garden where rain doesn't stop play at any time.

Golden Lion owner Chris Nevin says the pub has been able to utilise the shutdown periods positively, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen the business’ offerings from providing takeaway services in the first lockdown to showcase the pub after such a short opening period.

There was also the addition of the marquee in December to allow the "rule of six” under the former 'Tiers system' to ensure a safe and more pleasant Christmas than would have been possible without a large weather proof space.

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The pub has also cleared a derelict wooded area that has been unused for years and added table tennis to give children a place to play and enjoy time outside together after such a long time indoors.

"As much as it has been a struggle for everyone to adapt and an extremely painful time for many, we have been blessed with an amazing team who have stuck by the business," said Chris.

"We had nine days of normal trading and then over a year of restrictions.

"The support from the government via the council has been invaluable and the company has used the down time to plan each reopening to ensure the business is stronger and safer each time for the team and guests.

"We have got everything to play for come April 12 to ensure we get back to normal as soon as possible with the best experience for our guests.

“Ceri (pub manager) and all her team have been superb throughout and what’s more they can’t wait to get back to welcoming everyone back.

The Golden Lion

The Golden Lion

Chris added: "Bookings are important for the first few months to ensure everyone arrives with a guaranteed table and Track and Trace is much more efficient this way for everyone.

"However we will always try to accommodate guests who haven't where possible.

"The first Saturday after reopening is fully booked and we are filling up quickly so it will be worth the extra effort."

For more and to book, visit: thegoldenlionrainford.co.uk.

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