Bar puts business on pause as rules change

A Sunderland city centre bar has put a pause on business after the latest round of Covid restrictions came into force.

Hidden, off Park Lane, has temporarily closed due to the rules, which ban people from meeting with others outside their household or bubble and advises against gathering in outdoor venues, such as beer gardens and parks.

The rules, which cover seven council areas including Sunderland following a rise of case numbers, comes in addition to the national rule of six, which caps the number of people allowed to socialise together.

In the time while its doors are closed, the bar is offering the Hidden at Home drinks delivery service to support its workforce.

The bar said the move had been made following “much deliberation”.

It added: “While we’ve implemented every possible measure to ensure we’re Covid-secure, the latest regulations means that it’s near impossible for us to deliver the usual experience we strive towards for our guests.

“We’re extremely sorry for any inconvenience caused.

"Everyone with existing bookings has been contacted and refunded.

"We really do appreciate the messages and support you’ve shown us since reopening.

“For local businesses who are trying to remain open, we’d like to wish them the best of luck and encourage people to support them during this difficult time where possible.

“Although we’re taking a break for now, we hope to be back to some kind of normality in the near future.

“Take care everyone.”