MEMBERS of a Darlington sports club are being welcomed back to the bar, despite not games going ahead.

Darlington Cricket Club will be open for outside drinking from Saturday July 4, in line with other pubs, restaurants and hotels across the country as the economy restarts after the coronavirus lockdown.

Opening hours will vary and be constantly reassessed in line with guidance, but currently the club bar will be open from 2pm to 7pm on Saturday 4 and Sunday 5, from 6pm to 9pm on Friday 10 and 2pm to 7pm for the following two days.

The site is open for members only, who will be served from the outside kitchen window. Items must also be paid for with contactless cards.

The club said: "We plan to open in a safe manner taking small steps. We will continue to ensure staff and members safety remain our priority.

"We would like you to maintain two-metre social distancing where possible and follow the current government guidelines when meeting friends.

"We acknowledge that the guidelines have changed to one-metre plus and we are looking to open the Lounge Bar to provide seated table service in the future.

"Toilets will be open with access from the outside and only one person will be allowed in at any one time. Please ensure that you wash your hands and use the sanitisers.

"It is the responsibility of members or staff if they develop any symptoms of Covid-19 and have attended the cricket club for a drink that they email and inform the club who they had been in contact with, for the track and trace system.

"We hope to see you all soon enjoying a social drink. Have an umbrella at the ready."