EDEL KENEALY

Buddies got a taste of freedom yesterday as Renfrewshire’s bars, restaurants, gyms and shops reopened their doors for the first time this year.

Business owners and customers alike sought to shake off a traumatic 13 months as people were finally able to enjoy a workout with friends, a meal with loved ones and to buy a gift from their favourite shop.

Yesterday marked four months since hospitality and nonessential shops were permitted to open, with dozens of people grateful for a much-needed boost.

For those attending Paisley’s Abbey Inn, it was an opportunity to celebrate a birthday, a long overdue catch-up with friends and a pint of draft beer.

The reopening meant Stacey Jamieson was able to mark her 30th birthday in style.

The Paisley lass, complete with birthday sash and comedy glasses, was able to raise a glass with her family knowing that many others haven’t been quite so fortunate recently.

Stacey said she “didn’t expect” to the celebrating her 30th on a dull Monday afternoon but was “grateful” to be surrounded by friends and family for the occasion.

Her family was one of dozens to book a table at a pub, cafe or eatery in Paisley in a bid to see some “normalcy” returned to their lives.

Robbie Morrison, owner of Munchies and Leisureland in the town centre, said: “It’s good to see people coming through the doors again.

“It’s amazing to see every one of our regulars come back and to see a buzz about the street again is a boost.

“The mood has definitely lifted.”

Peter Danks and Ashleigh Podmore were delighted to tuck into lunch at Munchies, saying they were keen to introduce oneyear- old daughter Orla to the things we usually take for granted.

“It’s absolutely brilliant just to be able to go somewhere for a meal,” Ashleigh said.

“We would do this kind of thing regularly so you do miss it.

“And it’s good to get Orla out and about.

“Wee ones are not socialising and meeting other people the way they ordinarily would so we’re looking forward to doing more of this.”

For shops such as White Cart Co and Houston’s Kiltmakers, they were delighted to welcome back regular customers and those searching for the perfect outfit and gift as the wedding and communion seasons kick off in earnest.

Joe Bisland, who owns White Cart Co with wife Tricia, said their customers were delighted to be browsing the high street as opposed to the internet.