With capacity for up to 1,000 people, the Summer Social launched on Thursday evening. Reporter Brad Harper went along to sample the atmosphere...

The smell of street food delights, the sound of revellers’ laughter and the sight of a giant inflatable head of Tina Turner.

All this hits you as you are escorted towards your table near Dreamland’s Scenic Stage, which has been transformed into the 'Summer Social'.

The "open-air pub", which launched on Thursday, features DJ sets and live sports on the big screen.

Punters will have to follow strict Covid procedures, including a one-way system through the main entrance and exit, staying at their tables (unless using the toilet facilities) and wearing face masks when leaving their tables.

Customers can enjoy a mix of booze, including pints ranging from £5 to £6, and a four-pint jug costing between £20 to £23.

There are a range of street food vendors, including fish and chips from Seawise, Rad Burger and pizza from Ovesu Van.

Burgers are £9, or £11 with fries, and pizzas range between £8.50 and £11.

Meanwhile, it's £9 to park at the Dreamland car park.

And there were good reviews from customers when I spoke to them at the event on Thursday.

Gaynor Humphries, 52, said: “It’s nice to be back out at Dreamland and to be able to socialise again.

“This is the first night but we hope that we’ll be back a lot of nights during the summer and we’re looking forward to having many sunsets here.

Kylie Boers, 32, said: “It’s nice to be actually on a night out which is well organised and we hope this is the future - getting back to normal.”

Susan van Schalkwyk, 38, added: “We don’t really know what’s going to happen in the future.

“I’ve had my first jab but if numbers start going up, I won’t be doing this again.

“But at the moment, things seem to be going okay.”

Laurie McMahon, 21, said: “It’s much safer when you’re outside. We’ve been to pubs before this so this is a lot safer.”

Friends and families can purchase tables in groups of up to six people.

The Summer Social has well-spaced seating areas and provides a table service where all drinks can be ordered via smartphone.

Organisers of the event have said: "The sun will be shining, the street food sizzling, and the beers and sodas chilling on ice… so make this the one social event of the summer not to miss!"

There will be a capacity of up to 1,000 people and early booking is recommended. To book your table click her.

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