Diners enjoyed eating indoors as Covid restrictions further eased this week in the third stage of the government's roadmap out of lockdown.

Romford Recorder: Linda and Jason Clarke tucked into a McDonald's in Romford's Mercury Shopping CentreLinda and Jason Clarke tucked into a McDonald's in Romford's Mercury Shopping Centre (Image: Sandra Rowse)

As of this Monday (May 17), restaurants could seat tables of six people or two households indoors - though gatherings of over 30 people inside remains illegal.

Romford Recorder: Friends Ken Knight and Alfie Reid caught up over dinner at Caffe Terra in the Mercury Shopping MallFriends Ken Knight and Alfie Reid caught up over dinner at Caffe Terra in the Mercury Shopping Mall (Image: Sandra Rowse)

At the Mercury Shopping Centre, manager Spencer Hawken was delighted to see customers sitting down in the mall's eateries again, including Della Continental, Pink Salmon and McDonald's.

He said this would add to customer's "shopping experience", with more options than a takeaway bite.

Romford Recorder: Lesley and Alan Ashford loved having a meal out on May 17Lesley and Alan Ashford loved having a meal out on May 17 (Image: Sandra Rowse)

The centre's Mecca Bingo also reopened this week, serving hot meals every day from 11am to 10pm and hosting a fully-licensed bar.

Romford Recorder: Michael Phillips from Romford enjoyed his drink at the Liberty BellMichael Phillips from Romford enjoyed his drink at the Liberty Bell (Image: Sandra Rowse)

Spencer said: “For older players, it's particularly exciting because this is their social life, which for the best part of a year has been taken away from them."

Romford Recorder: Mecca Bingo was buzzing as it welcomed customers back into the hallMecca Bingo was buzzing as it welcomed customers back into the hall (Image: Sandra Rowse)

“It’s so important to get that social connection again," he added.