Torbay Council Leader, Councillor Steve Darling, said: “Torbay Council welcomes the Prime Minister’s recent announcement that lockdown measures will be eased further. This will provide the lifeline that so many businesses in Torbay need, particularly in the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries.

"We have been working closely with both of our MP’s Kevin Foster and Anthony Mangnell and with our partners to send a joint message to the Government to recognise the needs of our hospitality industry which has been so badly affected by the Coronavirus lockdown and this latest announcement addresses those concerns. In order to keep Coronavirus at bay the right measures now need to be in place to effectively track, trace and contain the virus.”

Deputy Leader, Councillor Darren Cowell said, “This is a significant step forward for many businesses in Torbay and we will now be doing all we can to help support them to re-open safely.  We know that Covid-19 is likely to have a devastating impact on Torbay’s economy and so we are doing all we can to limit the damage and stimulate our economy to put it back on the path to recovery.

“Most of all we want to make sure that everyone who comes here has a safe and enjoyable visit. We are a responsible resort and we welcome responsible visitors.”