Cautious step to freedom

WERE it not overshadowed by sadness, today would be a cause for huge celebration. The loosening of many of the Covid restrictions has been a long time coming, so we have every reason to be excited by this big step back towards normality.

Businesses, from pubs and restaurants able to serve outdoors to hairdressers, “non-essential” shops and open-air attractions have been swamped with advance bookings.

Add to that the news that employment prospects are looking rosy, and we should be able to look forward to a prosperous future thanks to the success of the vaccine rollout.

But we are not out of the woods yet. Our poll shows Britons overwhelmingly approve of the cautious roadmap to freedom so they will appreciate the need to continue with care as we move forward.

The chance to enjoy a pint or a meal out; to get a long overdue haircut; to visit a zoo or theme park; and to spend, spend, spend in support of our local high streets, are things we once took for granted.

Now we should cherish them like never before.

Raise a glass to loved ones we have lost – and to freedom – by all means. But do it sensibly.