More than two-thirds will not feel comfortable visiting pubs when lockdown lifted

More than two-thirds of people will not feel comfortable returning to pubs and bars after the coronavirus lockdown is lifted, according to research by YouGov.

Slightly more people said they would feel comfortable going to coffee shops (36%) and restaurants (37%), however in both cases a clear majority said they would feel uncomfortable visiting such hospitality venues.

Other public places provoked less concern from the public, with garden centres causing the least concern but still seeing 25% of people say a visit would make them uncomfortable.

YouGov did see a noticeable gender divide from respondents ,with men appearing to feel more confident about visiting public places than women.

An age difference was also seen, with 64% of 18- to 24-year-olds saying they would feel comfortable returning to clothing stores, compared to 46% of those aged from 50 to 64.

On Sunday cabinet minister Michael Gove said hospitality businesses would be among the last to reopen as the lockdown is gradually lifted.

Even when restrictions are eased, operators are anticipating significant social distancing guidelines, which would reduce the capacity of venues.

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