With the Government’s roadmap to normality currently going as planned, people can now again meet in limited numbers indoors.
This includes pubs and restaurants.
And, though caution is still advised, people can also hug others from outside their households.
Here are some of the Sunderland folk who took advantage of these long-awaited opportunities.
1. Big hug
Sisters Pat Dewar and Ann Graham. Photo: Stu Norton
2. Warm welcome
Lillie Jameson ready to welcome customers to Spent Grain on its first day. Photo: Stu Norton
3. Time for a cuppa
CoffeeHaus customers Iain Armstrong, Karen Proud and Jayne Bell. Photo: Stu Norton
4. Family get-together
Brenda Gray, John McCowliff and Joanne Gray at The William Jameson JD Wetherspoon. Photo: Stu Norton