Waiting for summer during the past few months of lockdown has been somewhat akin to waiting for the social care White Paper. Unlike last year's glorious sunsoaked lockdown, this year's version has been a far more dank and dreary affair, held together with a roadmap and the hope of sunshine soon.

All hopes that the initial easing of lockdown would see an upsurge in elegant alfresco dining gave way to the reality – of plucky Brits braving the weather, huddled under an umbrella for some pasta and a pinot. And it has been well worth the goosebumps.