Sheffield punters say "it's like we've never been away" as they are welcomed back to beer gardens

The excitement was palpable among Sheffield punters as they returned to the pub today, helping them to regain a “sense of normality.”
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Within hours of coronavirus restrictions being lifted, the memories of a long winter of Covid-19 restrictions seemed to melt away as Sheffield’s beer gardens began to fill up with friends, families and everything in between.

Plenty of those partaking in the festivities had taken a day off work especially, including Paul Grassby who got to The Broadfield before it opened at midday with friend, Nathan Krause, to bag one of their walk-in tables.

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"It feels really good to finally be out and socialising,” said Paul, adding: “It’s just nice to be around people again.”

Sue and Phil Cliff with Simon Cliff, Caroline Facey and their four-month-old daugther, MatildaSue and Phil Cliff with Simon Cliff, Caroline Facey and their four-month-old daugther, Matilda
Sue and Phil Cliff with Simon Cliff, Caroline Facey and their four-month-old daugther, Matilda

Among the first visitors to the Broadfield was Sue and Phil Cliff, along with their son Simon, his fianceé Caroline Facey and their four-month-old daughter, Matilda.

The cheery group were meeting for lunch, and to mark one of baby Matilda’s first outings.

When asked what it felt like to be back in the pub after such a long time away, Phil said: “Bloody brilliant!”

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Simon added: “We’ve really been enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. The Broadfield was the last place I went for a drink before lockdown, so it’s great to be back.”

Steve and Dawn StubbsSteve and Dawn Stubbs
Steve and Dawn Stubbs

Steve Stubbs also took a day off in order to be able to enjoy the first day of outdoor hospitality; and he and his wife, Dawn, arrived at Two Thirds Beer Co on Abbeydale Road for around 11.30am.

Steve and Dawn were beaming as they took in the atmosphere at the bar’s bustling roadside seating area, supping on two thirds of Thornbridge’s Green Mountain Session IPA and a chilled glass of prosecco, respectively.

“We booked in straight away because we really like it here. We just wanted to get out and support local businesses like them,” said Steve.

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Stephanie Thorn and Mark Booth, who owns Crosspool Ale Makers’ Society, said it was a “relief” to be out and enjoying a sense of normality again.

Stephanie Thorn and Mark BoothStephanie Thorn and Mark Booth
Stephanie Thorn and Mark Booth

"It’s nice to able to see people outside, having a good time, and to support local businesses,” said Stephanie.

Added Mark: “Everyone seems to be really happy, everyone seems to be in a good mood. It’s like we’ve never been away.”

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