A BOAT operator will resume their cruises on the River Dee this Saturday (July 4) after an eventful start to 2020.

The year started promisingly for ChesterBoat with the company's decision to open on New Years’ Day for the first time in several years proving popular.

During January, the fleet underwent their biennial maintenance and inspections before being given a fresh coat of paint at Sandy Lane car park ahead of what was hoped would be a busy February half-term.

But storms Ciara, Dennis and Jorge put paid to that keeping the river severely flooded for three and a half weeks.

River levels had just returned to normal when the coronavirus outbreak hit and the boats have been temporarily moored ever since.

Now lockdown measures are beginning to ease, ChesterBoat says it has adapted in order to welcome passengers for the first time since March.

Managing director Brian Clarke said: "As a boat operator our priority has always been keeping crew and passengers safe. We've incorporated the new public health guidance into the extensive safety training that our staff already carry out.

"We’ve made significant changes to the way we operate, including a new ticket kiosk and reduced capacity on the boats.

"We’re feeling positive about the rest of the season. After all, we are only halfway through the year and we still have the summer holidays ahead of us.

"People are looking for ways to get out and enjoy the outdoors safely with their families, and the river is a great place to do this."

ChesterBoat will be open daily from Saturday for short daytime cruises.