Pubs reopen
Police praise for peaceful first day
Somerset has been praised by police after no ‘significant incidents’ were recorded on the first day pubs reopened.
Bars, hotels, restaurants and other businesses in the hospitality sector reopened on what was dubbed Super Saturday and police were gearing up for chaotic scenes.
But while other parts of the UK, such as London’s Soho and Northampton, saw busy streets, assaults and a substantial lack of social distancing, Bath and Somerset remained pretty quiet and civilised.
A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: “We’d like to thank all those who visited our towns and cities yesterday (July 4) as licensed premises reopened for the first time in more than three months.
“Plans had been put in place to respond to an increase in demand for our services but we’re pleased to say there were no significant incidents. Covid-19 still presents a deadly threat and we’re grateful to all those who continue to take a personal responsibility to help control the virus.”
Saturday was the first day that hairdressers, restaurants, and pubs were able to open their doors in almost four months of lockdown.
But a number of popular pubs in the region, including several in Bath, remain closed for now, including Flan O’briens on Westgate Street and the Pig and Fiddle on Saracen Street.
Police had warned of the consequences of any public disorder, antisocial behaviour and illegal, unlicensed street parties, saying none would be tolerated.
Somerset did see a fair few customers return to their favourite pubs during a rainy Saturday, huddling under umbrellas around tables outside or enjoying the freshly cleaned and sanitised tables indoors.
Some got up early to avoid missing out and many were pleased to see things begin to return to normal.
Though one pub landlord from Bath - the managing director of The Bath Pub Company, which operates The Hare and Hounds in Lansdown, Marlborough Tavern and The Locksbrook Inn - was frustrated after two groups failed to show up for their reservations.
Joe Cussens, managing director, wrote in a Twitter message: “12.30pm and have already had two parties not turn up for their reservation. Called them to find out where they are - didn’t pick up.
“What the hell is the matter with you? Where have you been the last three months?”
Bath MP Wera Hobhouse said: “I am proud of everyone in our city who has behaved responsibly to help contain Covid-19.
“We are entering a new chapter which will allow us more freedom.
“To make this a success, and to prevent an upsurge of coronavirus cases, it’s vital that we approach this new chapter with the same responsibility and caution that we have shown so far.
“I know that our shops, restaurants, cafes, bars, pubs, guest accommodation, visitor attractions, places of worship and other public meeting places have worked hard preparing to welcome customers, visitors and guests in a way that is ‘Covid-secure.’
“I want to thank them all, as well as key organisations including B&NES Council, Visit Bath, Bath BID, the Association of Independent Guest Houses, the Bath Area Self Catering Association, Bath Chamber of Commerce and others for their commitment to keeping everyone safe while starting to reopen.
“Lockdown has taught us all to appreciate the little everyday pleasures in life we had taken for granted.
“By each playing our part, we can fight the spread of Covid and start to enjoy some of our favourite places and activities once again.”