Help tourism bounceback in the South Hams when the industry opens up on July 4 as lockdown measures are eased, is the message from local MP Anthony Mangnall.

Mr Mangnall welcomed the re-opening of tourism and visitor attractions and called for people to show their support for businesses following a challenging three months.

From Saturday July 4, pubs, restaurants and hairdressers will be able to reopen, providing they adhere to Covid Secure guidelines, and some leisure facilities and tourist attractions may also reopen if they can do so safely.

Mr Mangnall said: “Thanks to the efforts of the British people to control the virus, I am delighted we have created the space to allow people to take a much-needed holiday and enjoy everything South Devon has to offer.

“From the beginning of lockdown, I have been working with those in the hospitality and tourism sector to help get them through this difficult time. Yesterday’s announcement is very welcome and I hope people get out to support the tourism and hospitality businesses which are reopening and which are so vital to our local economy and jobs.

“Safety is of paramount importance and it is vital that social distancing rules and safety guidance are adhered to, and local people as well as our guests feel safe and I will continue to press that.”

The Government will also be publishing detailed guidance to help tourist attractions and accommodation venues to re-open safely, such as by social distancing and cleaning protocols. A new industry standard will also be introduced by Visit England, so that the public can easily see if the venue is carrying out the new rules.

While the infection rate continues to fall, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has been clear that the public must continue to follow social distancing guidelines to keep coronavirus under control. The Government will keep all measures under constant review.

Culture secretary, Oliver Dowden said: “This is a significant moment for the UK’s fantastic tourism and hospitality businesses and the bounce back can now begin on July 4th.

“Across the country people have been looking forward to taking a day trip, weekend break or staycation following their efforts in lockdown over the past three months. Britain deserves a break and I hope people get out, support tourism businesses and enjoy a break safely.”

If they can do so safely, July 4 will also see the reopening of accommodation sites, outdoor gyms and playgrounds, cinemas, museums, galleries, theme parks and arcades, as well as libraries, social clubs, places of worship and community centres.