Local community centres have reacted with cautious optimism to the Government's roadmap out of lockdown that it announced on Monday.

The roadmap for easing Covid restrictions in England has been split into stages with a five week gap inbetween each stage.

Stage one on March 8 starts with the reopening of schools and colleges among other things, but progression to further stages will depend on the rate of infection.

Community centres and libraries have been told that they might be able to open their doors again on April 12 and adult indoor group sports and exercise classes might be able to take place again from May 17.

Angela Good at Moorclose Community Centre in Workington said: “I just hope that the data is double checked before we get given the go ahead to reopen. My fear is that everything will open too quickly and we will be back in a mess.

“If the data shows that we have to wait another month then I’m happy to do that. I just want us to be able to open up safely.

"It’s pointless trying to open up too soon because people will lose their lives.”

Many community centres have been worried about the young people and vulnerable groups who are missing out on the services that they provide

Ms Good said it was “vitally important” that people still have a community centre to come to at the end of lockdown.

The community centre has been running a food pantry and delivery project over the course of lockdown but the centre hasn't been able to open for other activities and services, which include a community cafe, indoor bowling, an autism support group, bingo and dance classes among others.

The centre has been conducting its youth club and other engagement sessions virtually.

Ms Good added: “I’m hoping that once we can open and get started again that everyone will come back.

“We have Whatsapp groups available for people who we’ve supported in the past and there are a couple of members who, on a daily basis, have said how much they’re missing coming here.

“The situation is absolutely rubbish, but I have to keep reminding them to hang on in there and to keep safe because they will be coming back.

"You would really struggle if you didn’t think there was light at the end of the tunnel.”