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amongst the highest in the country.

“So it’s vital that we all continue to do everything we can to protect each other.

“We know that most businesses have been following the rules and going the extra mile to look after their staff and customers, and we are grateful for this. We’d also like to thank the council teams and our partner organisations who have been working hard to support premises to operate safely, as part of a range of ongoing joint efforts to get local infection rates down.

“The temporary closure of Bar Rouge sends out a strong message that we take rule breaking very seriously. It puts us all at risk, so we won’t hesitate to use our enforcement powers if we have to.

“Unfortunately we have seen a worrying increase in the number of warnings having to be served in recent weeks. Nobody wants to see further restrictions in Calderdale. We must all work together and play our part to help keep our communities safe.”

A special partnership operation on Saturday, August 22 saw 16 council and police officers visit 34 premises in Halifax town centre to give advice and check compliance, as evidence showed it was an area of concern.

The majority of local businesses have been making great efforts to follow national and local guidance, and are operating safely in line with the restrictions. However, a small number of licensed premises have disregarded the need to take precautions to limit the spread of the virus.

Officers will continue to engage with businesses to help them understand the rules and the importance of complying, but will not hesitate to take action against those who show a continued disregard for public safety, as in the case of Bar Rouge.