AN ICONIC nightclub will stay shut despite restrictions lifting on Freedom Day, as bosses vow not to “risk the health” of their customers.

The Pink Toothbrush, which has been operating for 38 years, has said while the “situation remains uncertain” it will abandoned its re-opening plans for Friday.

The nightspot has said it has come to the decision with a heavy heart but felt like it was the correct thing to do, before being applauded by supporters for its noble decision on social media.

It comes as all nightclubs across the country were given the green light to finally open their doors yesterday as Covid restrictions in England were removed.

It means groups of more than six from multiple households will be able to meet indoors and outdoors, while face masks are no longer mandatory in shops and on public transport but are instead “advised”.

In a statement on their Facebook page, the club said: “Over the last 38 years, our customers and our staff combined have made the Pink Toothbrush the club that you all know and love.

“For that reason, we will not do something that could risk the health or livelihoods of those amazing people.

“Unfortunately, whilst the situation remains uncertain, we can’t tell you when we will be re-opening.

“However, we can’t wait to have you back really, really soon.”

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Business bosses have also approached Freedom Day with caution, with many resting the decision on whether or not to wear a face mask in store in their customers’ hands.

Lisa Spencer, who works at BelleRose Flower Boutique in Leigh, said: “We will be wearing our masks when people are in.

“I personally think Freedom Day has come round too soon with all the cases.

“I also think people should still wear their masks in public places and that maybe it could’ve been delayed a bit longer.”

Rick Coombes, from the Blind Barber, fears an “oh sod it” approach has been taken, and worries it may be too early when cases are rising.

Trudy Cross, owner of Leigh home goods store Tin Design, added: “We were looking forward to Freedom Day but now the virus still seems quite rife, it’s just put a dampener on it. We had a few customers in yesterday morning and only one didn’t wear their mask.”

Arnaldo Ribeiro, owner of AR Goldsmiths in Leigh, has only seen one member of staff have to isolate so far, despite the crisis now dubbed as the “pingdemic”.

"We’ve still got our plastic shields up, and won’t be taking them down until September - maybe not even then depending on the situation.”