READERS have said they fear another Covid-19 lockdown after voting to say easing restrictions on Monday was a mistake.

The Government moved to the final phase of easing lockdown restrictions on July 19.

In what has been dubbed 'Freedom Day', restrictions on social interaction, gathering and events were lifted.

It means for the first time in more than a year, social distancing is a thing of the past and people can meet both indoors and outside without limitations.

Businesses can also take a sigh of relief with table only service in pubs and restaurants over and large events and venues like nightclubs able to reopen.

But, despite much anticipation from some, many Halstead residents feel easing restrictions came too soon.

In a poll on the Halstead Gazette website and other mid-Essex titles, of 152 people, just 35 per cent were happy to see restrictions eased.

Of 140 people polled, a total of 66 per cent felt the restrictions were lifted too soon with 18 per cent saying it was overdue and 16 per cent saying it was right on time.

With 272 votes cast on the last two polls, 70 per cent said they fear Covid cases rising to previous levels and a whopping 87 per cent said they think we will see another lockdown or tighter restrictions again due to the eased rules.

Reader, Corina Breukel said: "As a health care professional, my rules will not change and if anything, become tighter to counteract the lessening of enforceable regulations in society."

Chris Howard added: "For those with underlying health conditions, even with our two vaccines, it makes no difference. We’re having to continue social distancing and wearing masks."

Bobby Don said: "Three weeks time will be locked down again."

Peter Coleman added: "Waiting for the next U-turn."

However, while residents may feel the restrictions came too soon, the move is expected to help businesses which have been struggling in the pandemic.

Hedingham Castle suffered when restrictions wrecked its wedding venue business and cancelled numerous events.

Now they're hoping to bounce back.

A spokesman said: "We are very much looking forward to a ‘normal’ summer season ahead now that the restrictions have eased and we have a very busy weddings and events season coming up.

"The last year has been tough for everyone but we have rallied as a team and made the most of the ‘down time’ to work on renovations to the castle and an exciting plan for diversifying the business to include more non-wedding offerings.

"All our events for the rest of the summer will remain outside to provide peace of mind for our visitors and staff, and we will still be encouraging regular hand-sanitising throughout the venue.

"All we need now is for the sun to keep shining".