Pub ban for young drinkers who won’t keep their distance

ACANALSIDE pub has implemented a “21 and over” policy after problems with younger drinkers not social distancing.

The Boathouse, Appley Bridge, banned under-21s after 8pm after experiencing difficulty in its first week of post-lockdown operations.

The pub reopened on on July 4 but said that it was impossible to control the number of younger customers sitting in large groups. Current guidelines only allow for people to visit pubs in groups of up to six people and while maintaining a one-metre distance.

Announcing the temporary policy, the landlords said they hoped that people supported the decision which would also allow neighbours to enjoy a more peaceful summer.

They said: “Following a review of our first week of being reopen, we have changed our age restriction to 21+ from 8pm.

“Due to an unprecedented increase in younger drinkers not adhering to social distancing we have made the decision to increase our drinking age to 21+ from 8pm Monday to Sunday.

“We have a duty to our customers and our staff to keep them safe.

“Despite asking the younger patrons to sit in smaller groups it is impossible to control.

“This decision has not been made lightly and we apologise to those affected. We will review our decision periodically.

“We will still allow under-21s to come and enjoy our venue up until 8pm.”