Life during lockdown has been difficult for many of us, but for those in relationships, it has been even harder.
The pandemic had forced non-cohabiting couples apart until Thursday, when the First Minister announced that those who live alone can form an extended group with another household.
Which means couples who have had to stay apart for months at a time can finally reunite.
Suzanne Mirfin, who lives in Kilmarnock, has not seen her partner Tom Corcoran for three months.
The couple have been together for almost five years, but as Tom, who lives in Dumbarton, cares for his elderly mother, they haven’t been able to see each other.
On Friday they joyfully reunited, Tom baring a huge bouquet of flowers for Suzanne.
“We always meet up every week and two weeks prior to Covid, I unfortunately couldn’t make it that weekend. I thought I had caught Covid-19 to be honest with you,” Tom says.
“I took a very bad spate of being unwell for about three weeks, had respiratory problems as well, but managed to self-isolate and come through it.
“I’m also a carer for my own mother, so I had to take care of her. So I’ve been stuck in a flat for a total of three months not being able to go out.”
“Little did I think it would be three months down the line before I would see Tom again,” Suzanne adds.
Suzanne and Tom have reunited after three months.
“Looking back it seems like not long, but three months out your life, there’s still a lot of people out there not seeing their loved ones. But I’m just ecstatic today,” she smiles.
Tom says that being isolated during the pandemic has been tough.
“I think, for my part anyway, being isolated has been very difficult, very difficult.
“However the introduction of FaceTime and these wonderful things have helped.”
The relaxation of the rules means that couples are also able to spend the night at another household, however the couple joked they’ve plenty of things to keep them occupied that evening.
“Do you know what, I’ve brought a good book with me,” Tom says.
“I’ve got ironing,” Suzanne laughs.
“We’ll probably just have a cup of cocoa or something like that,” Tom added with a smile.
