Big Issue crew back on streets

Malling Borough Council deployed information officers and licensing teams in towns and villages to check that rules were being observed.

In Cambridge, the council urged the public to plan ahead and make bookings, with around 50 per cent of restaurants and bars reopening.

After the generally good behaviour, local authorities have called on the public to keep it up.

Mark Crane, of the District Councils’ Network, said: “Just because the pubs are reopening doesn’t mean we are out of the woods just yet.

“There still remains a real risk of the disease spreading and we must all play a part in reducing this and preventing a second wave of infection.

“It is paramount we continue to adhere to social distancing and don’t put people’s health at risk, especially after a few drinks.

“District councils are doing all they can to facilitate a Covid-secure space for people to go out and enjoy themselves.

“But we are dependent on the public playing their part too by continuing to exercise maximum care and caution during this challenging period, and drinking responsibly and safely.”

BIG Issue vendors return to the streets today to sell the magazine for the first time since lockdown began more than three months ago.

Almost 2,000 vendors are returning to their pitches. They have been given personal protective equipment, including visors and gloves, and contactless card-payment equipment.

Sales have continued by subscription or shop sales.

Lord Bird, its founder, said: “It fills us with pride and joy to announce that Big Issue vendors are back out selling. We want to thank everyone who has supported us and vendors over the past 15 weeks. We couldn’t have got through such a perilous time without the overwhelming generosity everyone has shown us.”