Cheers! Pubs welcome back punters
Weekend passes ‘without significant incident’ as customers enjoy their first post-lockdown pints at bars across West Berks
IT'S been a while, but many pubs across the district opened their doors on Saturday to thirsty punters for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown.
There were queues outside The Hatchett Inn in Newbury town centre at lunchtime, but in general the huge crowds some anticipated did not materialise.
Many venues asked people for personal details, including name, car registration and telephone number, to enable them to contact customers should anyone subsequently test positive for the virus.
Most provided hand sanitiser and operated a one-way system.
Thames Valley Police declined to provide information on whether any arrests were made during the first 24 hours of reopening.
However, the head of local policing Chief Supt Christian Bunt said: “Thames Valley Police would like to thank the public for their support this weekend after the further easing of lockdown restrictions on Saturday.
“Overall, the weekend passed without significant incident, with the vast majority enjoying themselves responsibly and adhering to the government guidance.
“Personal responsibility is key in stopping the spread of coronavirus and it is pleasing to see that people are taking it seriously and doing all they can, while also enjoying themselves and socialising.
“Thames Valley Police will continue to have patrols in place and we would urge members of the public to drink responsibly, stay safe and be mindful of their impact on the emergency services.”
Meanwhile, at The Newbury in Bartholomew Street, licensee Pete Lumber had been busy installing screens to keep customers safe and offering hand sanitiser at the door and on the bar.
He said: “I must admit I was a bit nervous this morning. It’s the first time we’ve opened in 14 weeks.
“We’ve got screens in place between tables and lots of hand sanitiser and we’re fully booked for dinner.
“All the staff are very excited to be back and to welcome our customers again.
“It’s like people are finally starting to live again and it’s important that we help them keep safe.
“There’s a great community spirit in Newbury and this is a good day.”
Meanwhile, the Cow and Cask at Inch’s Yard, off Market Street, was also doing a roaring trade.
Licensee Ian Batho said: “We’ve been very busy. It’s been lovely to see our customers again and no one minds the social distancing.”
At the Catherine Wheel in Cheap Street, licensee Warwick Heskins has introduced a oneway system for customers to enter and exit the pub safely.
He said: “We’re taking people’s names and numbers and keeping them well spaced apart.
“Several people had even booked in advance to reserve tables.”
Town mayor Elizabeth O’Keeffe was out and about in her official chain to welcome customers back to Newbury’s licensed premises.
She said: “All the licensees I’ve spoken to say they've been having a good day.
“I’ve just been popping in to thank people for acting responsibly and to thank the publicans for all the hard work they’ve put in to keep their customers safe as they welcome them back. I wish them all good luck.”