'Tears of joy' at Honiton Wine Bar as Government announce reopening pubs and restaurants

The Honiton Wine Bar will be reopening on July 4, in accordance with the Government go-ahead earlier today (June 23).

While there are no specific guidelines yet; owners' Lisa and Peter Beigan wished to reassure people that they will be adhering to strict safety measures for the protection of customers, staff and family.

"We are so excited to reopen the doors," Lisa told Honiton Nub News.

"The Honiton Wine Bar is one of Honiton's oldest eateries, with a unique character and lovely atmosphere - happy, friendly and welcoming.

"July 4 is like a new beginning, we feel like we will be getting our extended family back."

A takeaway service is currently operating from Wed - Sat from 5.30pm; offering tapas and a selection of fast foods and drinks. People can phone to place an order and pay on collection.

The Honiton Wine Bar has also made use of lockdown to freshen up the exterior of the premises and update the toilets.

"We've applied a fresh coat of paint inside, revamped the toilets and the exterior has been transformed to highlight its unique features," Lisa explained.

"Lockdown has been an experience to say the least, but it has been for everyone. We needed to be patient; to keep everyone safe and to wait it out.

"One thing that has really stood out to us during this time is the community spirit seen across Honiton."

This inspired Lisa and Pete to give something back and run a 'Local Lockdown Legends' competition on their Facebook page.

Members of the public can nominate someone who they feel has made a positive impact on the community during lockdown. The prize is a meal for two and a bottle of wine, with all nominations added to a draw and the winner announced on July 15.

The competition has been a huge success and really highlighted some of the amazing ways that the Honiton community has pulled together recently.

"Reading through the nominations has been truly emotional. What a town we have the pleasure to live and work in; we are very proud to be a part of it," Lisa said.

"One service that has featured highly within the nominees is The Random Kitchen.

"Cathy and her brilliant team have given up their own time to provide 1000s of meals for vulnerable people for free - made possible through crowd funding and donations."

On July 15 the staff at The Honiton Wine Bar will be jumping on exercise bikes to cycle the equivalent of the Jurassic coast (95 miles) to raise funds and awareness for The Random Kitchen.

Details on how to donate will be announced on their Facebook page and website on Friday, 26 June.

For more information email [email protected] or phone 01404 47889.