MP JULIAN Smith stopped off in Skipton to wish businesses well ahead of this week’s further easing of coronavirus restrictions.

Mr Smith CBE visited Skipton Boat Trips in Coach Street, which runs trips along the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, and the Plaza Cinema in Sackville Street, both of which have been able to re-open after the Government announced England was ready to move to step three of its roadmap out of recovery.

Family run Skipton Boat Trips has been going for more than 30 years. From this week it has been able to increase what it has been able to do, including fish and chip and afternoon tea cruises.

“While both businesses have been able to take advantage of government support schemes and grants it is brilliant that they are able to reopen allowing people to enjoy these local attractions once again,” said Mr Smith.