FOR the owners of Dexter and Jones, the easing of lockdown restrictions marks an exciting step in their journey.

The craft beer, artisan gin and fine wine shop and bar is set in the heart of Knutsford in Princess Street.

Adam and Katy Rickitt took over the business in 2019, shortly before the UK went into its first national lockdown.

Although the couple have been able to keep their doors open as an off-licence, as well as operating a popular online shop, they have missed serving and interacting with their customers.

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“When we reopened in July last year, Geralds of Knutsford next door lent us their car park so we could have a beer garden,” Katy said.

“It’s been a saving grace because without outside space now you’ve got nothing.

“That’s what we love about Knutsford – everyone has really been supporting each other throughout the lockdown.”

Speaking on Monday, Katy said it had been a welcome change to allow customers to sit outside with their drinks – and the beer garden was even fully booked that evening.

Knutsford Guardian:

She added: “With the first guy who came in today, it was quite a nice moment because he couldn’t believe he could actually sit out now.

“It’s seems like we’ve got this scrap of normality back.”

Dexter and Jones offers more than 450 different craft beers, 10 draft beers – which are ever changing – as well as more than 150 small batch gins and more than 60 different wines.