OUTDOOR sports have finally returned to Allerdale after lockdown rules were eased.

March 29 saw the next step of the Government's so-called roadmap out of lockdown. Residents are now allowed to meet with one other household, or up to five other people, outside - including in gardens.

Outdoor sport can also resume, allowing grassroots sports like five-a-side football, golf, and tennis once more.

Furthermore, the "stay at home" order was lifted on Monday, allowing people to leave their homes for non-essential reasons once more.

The changes have been particularly welcomed by the borough's golf clubs, particularly with the fine weather the county has been experiencing this week.

Barry Pettitt, the director of Maryport Golf Club, revealed the course had already seen a large number of players returning.

He said: "It's wonderful to be back open. Everybody is playing with a smile on their face.

"The course has been packed. Monday wasn't the best day weather-wise, but since then it's cleared up and Wednesday was perfect. Everybody has been making the most of it and is happy to be back.

"I went out on Wednesday for the first time, and it was great, it's been absolutely glorious.

"We're getting back into form - a few players are a bit rusty!"

Of course, the majority of restrictions are still in place. Despite the 'stay at home' order being lifted, residents are still being advised to stay local to their homes and not travel too far.

Furthermore, Non-essential retail, hairdressers, libraries, indoor leisure facilities and other outdoor attractions must all remain close until April 12.

On that day, outdoor hospitality venues and self-contained accommodation such as campsites and holiday lets will also be allowed to reopen.

Barry added: "We've done our bit and we're open to players now. We're just hoping that everybody uses their common sense and we can get to that next stage and we can start serving drinks.

"We all want to get to June 21 when we can get back to something approaching normality."