Raising a glass
‘Cheers’to rules easing
The Strath’s pub-goers were able to savour their favourite tipples at local hostelries once again as the area’s beer gardens opened their gates following lockdown restrictions being eased.
In Crieff, proprietors Kayleigh Keith and Craig Gillespie welcomed customers back to The Tower Gastro Pub on Monday.
And, as well as measures such as staff wearing masks, a one-way system and hand sanitisers in place, modern technology is helping to keep customers safe.
A new app means drinks can be ordered to the table via mobile phone.
The Tower has been delivering afternoon teas during lockdown but Kayleigh said it was great to see customers face-to-face again.
Reflecting on the day, she said everything had gone well despite a few teething problems with the app.
Well-prepared Kayleigh told the Herald: “I conducted a webinar with staff prior to opening to make sure everyone knew what was happening before they came in.
“We initially thought we would need to give customers two hour time slots to give us time to clear the tables and get them wiped down before new people came in.
“But on the first day we played it by ear and thankfully we have a really large garden with about 20 tables all two metres apart so we didn’t have to limit the time.
“And people were staying at their tables and following the house rules.
“We also had a friendly visit from the local police and we were able to talk them through all our processes and they were very happy with all our measures.”
The Tower has also put up gazebos to allow for the Scottish weather.
In Comrie, the Royal Hotel has also made sure they have it covered for their outdoor diners, erecting a large awning over the al fresco area and renaming it the Giant Tipi Festival Garden.
It is due to reopen on Thursday this week with a special street food menu, fairy lights and fire pit to complete the socially distanced festival atmosphere.