At last we can enjoy a proper pint in socially-distanced comfort of a pub
WELL, it’s finally happened: our pubs have reopened, writes Neville Grundy. There were predictions of drunken chaos in High Streets everywhere, and even some Camra members told me they weren’t going out for a drink until it had all settled down.
So what really happened? I strolled through Southport town centre on opening day and, while I could see that those pubs that had reopened were busy to varying degrees, none of them was packed out.
I also didn’t see any drunken misbehaviour in the streets.
I know that there were hotspots where people behaved irresponsibly, but from my own and other Camra members’ experiences and from what I’ve seen in the media, most people made the effort to follow the guidance.
In the three pubs I’ve visited so far, social distancing was observed, enhanced cleaning was taking place, and contactless payments were encouraged.
My only advice would be to do what pub staff ask you because they’re not being awkward – they have to ensure the rules are followed because if not, your local may be compulorily closed, not a good outcome. More importantly, none of us wants to see a Covid-19 flare-up and renewed lockdown, as has happened in Leicester and in other parts of the world.
Having said all that, I haven’t seen any foolish behaviour so far, but these are early days yet.
Please note that pub opening hours may be different from what they were before, if you’re unsure, either phone the pub or check their website or Facebook page.
In response to the Government’s support for the hospitality industry, Camra’s chief executive, Tom Stainer, said: “While a six-month cut in VAT for food served in pubs and the ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ voucher scheme in August is welcomed, we are concerned that pubs have been left behind by the Chancellor’s statement, which contained little support for community pubs.
“It is also disappointing to see no direct support for independent brewers and producers, who will not benefit from a VAT cut that specifically excludes beer and cider.”
To discover pubs wherever you are in the UK, go to Camra’s What Pub website which lists 55,799 venues, including 37,651 serving real ale: what pub.com.
Southport & West Lancs website: www.southport.camra.org.uk.