Ashbourne News Telegraph

Village pub ‘won’t reopen after the lockdown’

- By Gareth Butterfiel­d gareth.butterfiel­d@ashbournen­ewstelegra­ph.co.uk

THE management duo of a popular Kniveton pub say they will not reopen after lockdown is over.

The Ketch, on the B5035, has served its last meals and pints following the shock announceme­nt made on its Facebook page over the Bank Holiday weekend.

A statement says the full impact of the coronaviru­s pandemic has made it “impossible” to trade in the future. Pubs have been forced to close since March to help stop the spread of coronaviru­s.

The Government has said it hopes to allow pubs to open again from July but this is not guaranteed at this stage. But the impact of the killer disease has apparently hit the business in a devastatin­g fashion.

The statement on its Facebook page, written by Jayne and Tom, says: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce that The Ketch at Kniveton will not be reopening.

“We have found it impossible to continue trading under the current circumstan­ces and have had to make a very difficult decision to cease trading.

“We have met some lovely people in our time at The Ketch and we wish all of our customers good health and happiness.” The statement then adds:

“Thanks to all of you who have supported us over the last few years. Please all #Staysafe and take care.” Customers have reacted with sadness to the announceme­nt.

Sara Hudson said: “So sorry to hear this. We always pop in when we visit Kniveton every year and will always be the best steak we have ever had!”

And Matt Pilkington said: “Thursday nights will not be the same. Hopefully see you for a pint or two somewhere in the not too distant future.”

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The Ketch in Kniveton

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