Customs House welcomes back diners and film fans as South Shields venue starts to reopen

After a week where the South Shields arts venue confirmed this year’s pantomime would be cancelled due to fears of a coronavirus spike and in the wake of its announcement it was carrying out a consultation over redundancies, it has opened its doors as it begins to welcome back visitors following its lockdown closure.

Its Dame Bella’s restaurant is now serving food and is part of the Government’s Eat Out To Help Out campaign, which offers customers 50% discount of up to £10 if they dine in from Monday to Wednesday, with Sunday dinners lined up for tomorrow’s service, including as a takeaway.

The bar is also serving drinks, with space outside for people to enjoy the riverside views and walk-ins welcome.

The cinema has also relaunched, showing Trolls World Tour and Miliary Wives each day, with a limited number of tickets available and parties of two or four to be seated socially distanced from each other.

An exhibition by animator Sheila Grabor has also opened.

In a video message its executive director Ray Spencer said as he sat outside the Mill Dam building: “Why not come down and support that little place over there, which needs a bit of love and attention.

"We’re not putting anything on the stage, we're just going to put things on your plate.”

The venue said; “We can’t wait to see you all this weekend and beyond.

"The Customs House needs your support now more than ever and together, we’re determined we’ll get through this.

"Let’s see your South Shields spirit. We’ll see you all there.”

Last month, nine-year-old panto fan Stephen Idle helped raise more than £2,000 to support the work of the theatre, gathering together sponsorship as he completed a series of walks.

The Bamburgh School pupil, who has cerebral palsy, was joined by stars of the panto and supporters as he crossed the finishing line of his challenge.

Theatres, restaurants and cinemas closed down in March following Government orders to help stop the spread of Covid-19, leaving businesses in the hospitality business fighting for survival.

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