With the lockdown gently easing and thinking ahead to pubs reopening we asked: "Where is the first place you will go for a pint?

This has not been a good year for publicans, and many people miss having a quiet pint at their friendly local. A lot of these institutions are at the heart of community life and their temporary closure has been a huge wrench.

With the ease of restrictions and people continuing to observe the rules on social distancing, the day may come in the not too distant future when the pubs reopen.

We know that things will not quite get back to normal for some time yet, but wanted to know the first place that you will go to for a post-lockdown pint.

We had around 40 suggestions sent in from readers to our News & Star Facebook page.

These list great venues all over North and West Cumbria, from Dearham to Monkhill and Carlisle City Centre, which you are keen to support again with your custom once the restrictions have lifted.

A number of reasons have been given for people’s preferences such as great landlords and regulars, drinks selection, food, atmosphere, and facilities.

There are far too many pubs to list them all here, but they include: The Otter Inn, The Royal Scot, The Drovers Rest, The Crescent, The Joiners Arms, The Appletree, Carlisle, The Queen Inn, The Rock, The Cranemakers, The Kings Head, The Fat Gadgie and The Spinners Arms.

Here are some of your comments from our Facebook page:

1 THE OTTER INN, LITTLE CORBY

Sarah Richardson posts: “Shaun and Hazel and The Otter Inn, Little Corby have been very much missed by the regulars - a much loved place for food, drinks, company and good times.” A thought shared by Emma Starmer, Andrea Braithwaite and Carlie Marshall.

Andy Young said: “Simply lovely - it’s also got a beautiful new bar area.”

Peter Marshall said: “The Otter Inn, can’t wait.” Nichola McCoy also mentioned The Otter Inn.

2 THE ROYAL SCOTT, MORTON, CARLISLE

Michelle Deeley can’t wait for this venue to open again.

Louise Evanne posted: “You know how much we miss our beloved HQ The Royal Scott. We all walk by it most days in the hope it’s reopened. The opening party is gonna be one to remember with the crazy clientele."

Donna Graham said: “Maxine and Michael Grierson, can’t wait to see you and all the staff. Most important a nice pint. See you all soon.”

Which got a thumbs up from Lynne-Marie Gibson.

3 THE DROVER’S REST, MONKHILL

Jeremy Fisher said: “The Drovers Rest, Monkhill. Best beer in the area, and a nice big beer garden so you can ‘stay alert’ and ease yourself back in to socialising.”

Geoff Little posted: “Drover’s Rest, Monkhill, lovely pub," which got thumbs up from Kathryn Osborne, Rob Donlevy, Penny Crack, Sarah Williamson and Sandy Williamson.

Richard Weir said it was the place to be for a rural visit.