VISITORS to Hampshire are being urged to drink sensibly and plan ahead before visiting pubs, cafes and restaurants this weekend.

Ahead of the county's hospitality sector reopening this weekend following months of closures, officials have said they are prepared for this "busier period" across Hampshire.

Pubs, restaurants and cafes are allowed to reopen from today, provided they have taken appropriate safety measures.

But local authorities are asking visitors to abide by coronavirus laws, drink sensibly and pre-plan travel.

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Southampton City Council, in partnership with GO! Southampton, is urging customers to plan before they visit the city.

Hampshire Police have said they are "preparing" for the reopening of pubs and restaurants.

Police will be working closely with the licensing industry across all areas of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight to ensure all businesses are aware of the new licensing objectives and COVID guidelines.

They also have patrol plans in place this weekend to ensure the easing of restrictions is approached safely.

Assistant Chief Constable Scott Chilton said: “We have been preparing in anticipation of this busier period, and we’re really proud in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight that our officers and staff have been resilient throughout the pandemic. Our officer and staff wellbeing plans have meant that we have been able to maintain officer numbers on shifts and within a wide range of teams, delivering the service the public would expect and at the same time, playing a key role in limiting the spread of the virus.

“If you are visiting bars and pubs this weekend, please drink sensibly, and pre-plan your travel and how you are going to get home. Reassess your plans if you arrive at your location and realise social distancing isn’t achievable. Be aware of how excess drinking and violent behaviour may impact the emergency services and the NHS. Covid-19 still presents a significant and deadly threat to public health.

“It’s important to remember that it is our collective effort to comply with the guidance, such as keeping our distance and washing our hands, that has led to the re-opening of our local businesses.”

Southampton City Council is asking visitors to check businesses are open before visiting and what new measures and processes they have put in place and book ahead where possible.

They should be aware of current social distancing guidelines – the national guidance remains two metres, and ‘one metre plus’ where two metres isn’t possible.

Visitors should also be aware that hospitality businesses are being asked to keep a record of every customer to assist with potential contact tracing.

Customers should plan their travel and remember that public transport operators will have reduced capacity on their services and face coverings must be worn by passengers.

Additionally, Fareham Borough Councils environmental officers will be conducting spot-checks on licensed premises to ensure they are maintaining social distancing requirements and keeping staff and customers safe from July 4.

Any complaints received from members of the public or staff at pubs and restaurants will be investigated by the Environmental Health team.