A regular health and lifestyle column from Corinne Yeadon, of the Being Better private therapy practice based in Newmarket Street, Skipton

WHEN it was announced that pubs and restaurants were re-opening, the feelings of national jubilation and rejoicing were of such a level only to rival the second coming.

Socialising with friends and family in pubs and restaurants is an integral part of British culture.

I imagined the day of pubs opening would resemble a scene narrated by David Attenborough, as wildebeest gallop across the Serengeti in pursuit of lush plains and watering holes

My youngest daughter works in a popular Skipton pub and attempted to pacify my worries informing me of safety measures and restrictions being implemented to protect customers and staff. My concerns laid with my daughter being in a position of enforcing regulations when people are disinhibited by alcohol and all good intentions of staying safe had dissolved.

There may have been coverage of worrying scenes from town centres and big cities, however, it appears that folk in Skipton acted responsibly and the absence of multitudes of people in local hostelries indicates a degree of caution.

Certain restaurants may have figured as regular haunts and a routine part of life. I can certainly identify with restaurants being family favourites over the years, where occasions are celebrated and visited regularly being assured of friendly familiar faces, a warm welcome and a sense of comfort and ease.

The lure of pubs and restaurants is not necessarily about food and alcohol, there are the regulars who sit in the same seat, eat the same food and moderately imbibe the same beverage. The vulnerable and isolated people who rely on staff and customers for companionship and social support. At the risk of sounding like the theme tune from “Cheers,” pubs for some people can be a home from home, providing a feeling of belonging, acceptance and are instrumental in meeting a community need.