TWO popular Ellesmere Port pubs have detailed the measures they are putting in place to keep customers safe as they confirm reopening plans for July 4.

Both The Woodland and Old Wirral Hundred pubs will look a bit different than they did prior to temporarily closing back in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A number of measures have been put in place so they can reopen safely, which includes people no longer being able to drink at the bar.

The Woodland, which underwent a refurbishment just before the lockdown, has confirmed that it will operate on a reduced capacity and through bookings only.

In a message to customers on the Facebook page, General manager David Agrellis said: "Following Government guidelines the maximum party size will be six people. This is the total number in your party and includes children.

"Upon arrival you will be greeted by our host who will take you to your table. They will explain our new service cycle and our new 'order at table' app. We ask can you please use contactless payment and order via our Sizzling app where possible.

"Drinking at the bar or at a table standing up will not be permitted, every guest must be seated. All tables will have an allotted time limit of which you will be informed of on your arrival.

"This is to ensure we can complete the required sanitising and cleaning between guests.

"We will have reduced trading hours initially. We will be open from 12pm until 10pm each day and our kitchen will close at 9pm.

"All guests will be seated in the lounge area. Our garden and public bar will remain closed until further notice. Tables can not be rearranged at any time.

"The pub will look a bit different from how you remember it, please be aware that certain table requests may not always be possible with our new layout. We will absolutely do our best but the safety of our guests and teams is now our priority

"Please be patient with us as we come to terms with this new way of working and we navigate these difficult times. Our focus is on making sure you have the best experience whilst remaining safe."

The Old Wirral Hundred pub posted on its Facebook page: "We have been working hard to ensure we can open our doors safely on 4th July.

"Entrance is strictly through the main front door and we will be asking customers to wait and be greeted by our host who will explain the changes to our service, and to sanitise your hands on the way into the pub.

"You will be directed in through the one-way system towards the bar area. We have laid out our floor plan with lots of signs to help ensure you adhere to the one-way system.

"Tables and chairs have been spaced and positioned as per government guidelines. Please ensure these are not moved.

"There will be two queues leading up to two till points with a Perspex screen for your added protection. We are accepting card and cash as payment but contactless is preferable.

"There will be no standing at tables indoors but this is permitted in the beer garden. Unfortunately we are unable to take table bookings.

"Standing at the bar is not permitted. As per government guidelines we will be operating a reduced capacity to 70% indoors. There will be maximum party size of six people with limited tables of six available.

"Our opening times remain the same however we have made the decision not to serve food at this moment. During busy times it may be that you will have to queue outside until someone leaves

"Tables and chairs will be cleaned after each customer. Toilets will be regularly cleaned and operated on a one in one out basis. Hand sanitiser will be available at the entrance/exit to the toilets."