Eager pubgoers have returned to their favourite Suffolk locals - despite temperatures falling below zero in some areas tonight.

Temperatures in Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich have ranged from highs of 9C to lows of -1C as pubs, restaurants and cafés welcome back customers outdoors from April 12.

Bury Mercury: The sun is set to shine making al fresco dining more enjoyable this weekThe sun is set to shine making al fresco dining more enjoyable this week (Image: Sarah Lucy Brown)

Owner of the Greyhound Pub in Ipswich, Dan Lightfoot, thinks customers are happy to just have somewhere to "have a good time".

Mr Lightfoot admitted that, even with some parabens and blankets in the pub garden: "It's going to be a little colder tonight.

"But we think people just want some sort of normality back."

Bury Mercury: A nice waterfront view being enjoyed as pubs reopenA nice waterfront view being enjoyed as pubs reopen (Image: Sue Read)

Ipswich's Steamboat Tavern owner Andy Barlow, who had full bookings, was a little more cautious with the return.

"We're easing our way back into it," he said.

"I don't think it's sensible at the moment to push for a big return."

Layham's Marquis owner Steven O'Leary said he was also happy to welcome back customers.