Local bar linked to Covid cluster

A cluster of coronavirus cases have been linked to a Hamilton pub.

NHS Lanarkshire this week confirmed a“small number”of positive Covid-19 results had been identified at Manhattan Bar on Quarry Street.

It comes after a source contacted the Advertiser claiming people who had been within the pub had contracted the virus.

On the Facebook page, Hamilton’s Premier Bar Manhattan, a post said: “Customers please note. Since we re-opened in July we have operated complying entirely with the Scottish Government guidance in relation to Covid-19 safety practices.

“Today we have been made aware a customer who has been in our premises recently tested positive for Covid-19.

“We are taking this very seriously.whilst we do not believe there to be any risk to our customers or staff, we are following best practice and have taken the following voluntary precautionary actions:

“We have closed the premises with immediate effect to protect all our customers and staff and have arranged a professional deep clean of the premises on Monday, September 21, and as such the premises will remain closed on this day.

“We have instructed all our staff who have been on shift to be tested.

“Our priority will always be the safety and wellbeing of our loyal and valued customers and staff.we thank you for your patience and look forward to welcoming you back ontuesday, September 22, at 11am. All welcome except the barred.”

Dr Josephine Pravinkumar, NHS Lanarkshire consultant in public health medicine, confirmed the cases and said: “A small number of Covid-19 cases have been identified at Manhattan Bar in Hamilton.

“NHS Lanarkshire’s test and protect team is working closely with South Lanarkshire Council and is in the process of identifying all close contacts who are being given public health advice and told to self-isolate along with their household members.

“The risk to the wider community has been assessed and is low.”