A popular Maldon tearoom has welcomed news in this week's budget and told how pandemic grants have provided a lifeline to helping them open up for business again.

Charlie Goss, of Mrs Salisbury's, said the announcement of the restart grant is helping the business make preparations for serving outside, with restrictions lifting to allow that on 12 April.

During the second national lockdown, the owners made the most of the chance to complete work on a stunning move to the larger Church House premises at the front of Bright's Path. They were delighted to have the premises ready for Christmas, before having to close them in December when the county went into Tier 3 restrictions.

Manager Charlie Goss told how the budget news has been a relief.

Charlie said: "It's so reassuring to see the VAT reduction extended as this makes a huge difference in compensating for lack of capacity due to distancing and extra Covid-secure operational costs.

"The furlough scheme extension is particularly beneficial as we can gradually bring the team back as each step of restrictions eases with the roadmap - not being able to open inside for five weeks brings a staffing issue in itself."

"We're extremely grateful for each grant over the course of the pandemic, the announced restart grant gives us the opportunity to set up efficient systems to open again - particularly serving outside. I'm sure as guidance is announced there will be more things we need to invest in to open safely so it gives us the security there, too."