U-turn on bid to ban drinkers under 25
A BIRMINGHAM pub has backtracked after a decision to ban under 25s sparked anger. Loyal customers who were told they would not be welcome in the Prince of Wales, in Moseley, due to their age condemned the pub after the new door policy was announced over the weekend. Younger pub goers and anyone dressed in a tracksuits, hats or trainers were added to a no-entry list.
But unhappy regulars hit out at the “ridiculous” rule and many predicted the restrictions would ‘‘alienate’’ loyal drinkers from spending their cash in the venue as lockdown eases.
After dozens of complaints pub boss Keith Marsden declared under 25s could drink inside the pub afterall, but wouild need a membership card.
Mr Marsden said those under the venue’s new age limit will have to sign up to join the free membership scheme, but he will give them a free drink if they do. The new rules came after a large crowd crammed into the pub, climbed onto table tops and refused to stop singing despite Covid-19 restrictions on Saturday night.
The rowdy group, who were not regular customers, entered as the staff tried to close at 11.30pm. Footage showed the men and women on tables as they jeered and waved their arms around.
The pub said it took staff ten minutes to convince them to finally halt their noisy chorus.
Mr said: “It’s disappointing that some selfish customers have behaved badly and made life difficult for staff, neighbours and other customers.
“One of the things people like about the Prince is it’s a broad church and welcomes people of all ages and backgrounds.
Anyone under 25 will be welcome to join our new membership scheme. This will allow them to use the pub and it’s totally free. You will simply need to register by bringing your photo ID along to a registration session at the pub in advance of your first return visit. You will be given a membership card and a free drink.
“We want to welcome customers of all ages to the Prince but anyone lacking respect will be turned away.”