WHILE the much-anticipated reopening of pubs, cafes and restaurants arrives soon, we still have a while to wait and, even then, seating will be in short supply and, of course, many of us won’t rush out on the first day.

Closed restaurants, together with this week’s excellent weather forecast, make it the perfect time for alfresco dining, which can be as simple as throwing a rug on the lawn, adding a plate or two of sandwiches, a bowl of crisps, some nice cold drinks and we’re away. 

To add a twist to regular sandwiches, use pitta or wraps and if these aren’t available, try open sandwiches which will add a splash of colour to any meal.

If it’s to be a barbecue, we can keep the cost down by mixing things up a bit.  Potatoes and bread are always cheaper than meat and fish and including some vegetarian options such as corn on the cob, veggie skewers and salads, will add colour and bulk to the buffet whilst being cheap to buy and easy to prepare.

When it comes to the drinks there are plenty of bargain beers to be had and for the no alcohol, low calorie options look out for punnets of reduced price soft fruit as these are perfect served sliced or mashed into jugs of fizzy water or ginger ale.

Alfresco dining with our immediate family can provide something of a tonic for anyone who has been cooped up for weeks on end, an ideal way to relax and forget the outside world.

A final warning: don’t forget sun hats, sunscreen and it may be worth investing in a citronella candle or applying insect repellent, which is also available for dogs, as bugs like to dine alfresco too!