Residents: ‘We’re more confused than ever’

Some people welcomed the fact travel restrictions will be eased and garden centres can open.

However, the majority said they needed ‘more clarity’ before understanding the full impact of the planned changes.

In particular, people are worried about returning to work - and proposals to open primary schools to some pupils from June 1.

There is confusion over new travel regulations which effectively mean people can drive anywhere - but only with members of their household.

Councils, police and other organisations, though, immediately called for people to continue to try and stay at home and avoid popular places where most businesses are still closed any way.

Paul Leighton said: “As things stand, I can drive to Skegness with my children, go for a walk but not call in to see my parents on the way 
home. It’s crazy.”

Carl Thompson added: “People are going to travel to the coast - and the Wolds - while locals are still isolating and worried about Covid-19.

“They (the government) should have left the lockdown alone - until the virus is under control.

“I know the PM’s said use common sense but it’s going to be a free for all.”

Andrea Jennings said: “I’m trying to contact my boss to ask if I’ve got to go back to work. I’m not an essential worker.

“I’ve two children under the age of eight and I’ve no-one to look after them.

“Usually, I’d take them to their grandparents but as I understand it that’s not allowed.

“I have to catch the bus (to work) yet I’m told to cycle or walk. It’s a long way to Lincoln from Horncastle!”

Mrs Jennings’ views were echoed by many others.

Mike Stellard said: “I was furloughed four weeks ago. I travel a lot but I can’t see me flying to Italy for a couple days and then spending two weeks in when I get back.

“How are they going to control that?”

Abbie Taylor said: “My employer says I can work from home to help with my kids, but the internet signal is so bad I can’t do half the things I need.

“When I told my employers that they just said: ‘You’ll have to come into the office’.

“Great. What do I do with my kids? Will I get the sack if I refuse to go into work?”

Ian Clements said: “How do I know I will be safe at work?

“I work in a factory where it’s impossible to stay two metres apart.

“The government seems to be telling me it’s ok to see my workmates, but not my own family and friends.”

Primary school pupils would be the first to return, but headteachers and unions are already expressing concern.

One teacher - who did not want to be named - said: “I’ve children of my own and we’ve self-isolated. If I go back to work, how do we keep four and five-year-olds apart?

“There’s a real risk I’ll take the infection home. I know a few teachers who won’t want to go back.”

As things stand, most hospitality businesses will remain closed until at least July, although it is unclear how restaurants, tea rooms and cafes will be monitored.

One pub owner said: “I can accommodate about 30 covers in the restaurant but if I have to halve that it’s hardly worth opening.”

Latest figures suggest four out of 10 pubs may never re-open at all.

Garden centres and golf courses can reopen from today (Wednesday) - but only if strict social distancing measures are in place.