Time is being called on pub closures in Hawick, Galashiels and Peebles from next month

The Bourtree in Bourtree Place in Hawick, Hunters Hall on Galashiels High Street and The Cross Keys at Northgate in Peebles are among 60 of the pub chain’s outlets in Scotland set to resume trading.

However, strict new rules to help combat the spread of Covid-19 mean alcohol can only be consumed outdoors in beer gardens – and only until 10pm.

But customers will be able to enjoy a meal indoors with non-alcoholic drinks.

Wetherspoon confirmed they won't be taking bookings, so customers will just have to turn up on the day and may have to queue for a table.

Rich Conway, manager at The Bourtree, welcomed the news, saying: “Thankfully we will be open again on April 26th. We can’t wait to get going!”

Helen Dumbreck, the company’s regional manager for Scotland, said: “We are looking forward to welcoming both customers and staff back to our pubs.

“Our pubs play an important part in the social life of their respective towns and cities and it is great news that they will be able to reopen soon.

“Each of our pubs will observe all the necessary safety rules around Covid-19.”

A further easing of Covid-19 restrictions is scheduled for May 17, when Scotland’s bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes can open until 10.30pm, with alcohol permitted and “two hour time-limited slots”.