HOTELS and B&Bs in Malvern have looked ahead to welcoming back guests from next week.

From May 17, indoor hospitality venues can re-open, providing a welcome relief to businesses whose efforts to provide outdoor service have suffered in the recent poor weather.

Kathy Leather, who runs the Copperbeech House B&B in the town, said she is looking forward to welcoming back guests after a year like no other.

She said: “No customers for nearly a year has left us anxious but optimistic about what the future will bring.

"Pre Covid we had a B&B busy nearly Severn days a week attracting customers from around the Uk and a variety of countries from abroad.

“We once again open our doors on May 17 and are ready to go with electronic sanitisers, temperature checking, and a system in place to make sure, no one goes into the bedrooms until 48 hours after guests check out.

“We also have our tables, chairs, shaded areas and bell tents in the garden, in case guests want to eat alfresco during their stay.

"Every customer’s needs are different, we want people to relax. The first step could be sitting in the garden, the second step staying away from home."

From Monday, indoor events and remaining outdoor events, such as elite sports, business events, cinemas and live performance events will also be permitted.

Remaining holiday accommodation can reopen, as can saunas and steam rooms. Indoor team sport and group exercise classes will return.

At this step, both outdoor and indoor gatherings or events, organised by a business, charity, public body or similar organisation, can be organised subject to specific Covid guidance.

AJ Bains, general manager of the Mount Pleasant Hotel, said he was also looking forward to welcoming back guests after lockdown.

He said: “My team and I are really looking forward to opening on Monday.

"It’s been so long and we have all missed working together.

“We can’t wait to see our regular customers again and welcome new faces too.

"I’m optimistic we will have a great few months ahead.”