Retreat cancels takeaways as Covid crisis continues
A BUSY Staffordshire Moorlands tea room has announced it is going to close its takeaway service for now due to growing Covid cases.
The Ramblers Retreat, in Dimmingsdale near Alton, will be closing temporarily, including its delivery counter.
A statement from the Ramblers Retreat said: “Given the current scale of the pandemic and the intense pressure our hospitals and NHS staff are under, we have made the very difficult decision to temporarily close the Ramblers Retreat Country Tea Room.”
The tearooms had been offering takeaway drinks from its serving counter located in the garden, however, it has taken the decision to close down completely due to the coronavirus pandemic.
During lockdown, cafés and restaurants have to stay shut but can offer takeaway.
In a statement put out on social media, it said: “We understand that this may be disappointing for many as it has provided a little bit of joy in difficult times but we believe it is the right thing to do at the moment, encouraging everyone to stay safe by staying at home.
“We are hoping to be able to offer a very reduced service through a ‘Call and Collect Scheme’ for our local community in a couple of weeks’ time.
“Any changes to our operating level will be announced at ramblersretreat.co.uk @ Ramblersalton on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, and through our email newsletter.”
The Dimmingsdale area will remain open to the local community of Alton and the surrounding region.
However, toilets at the Ramblers Retreat will also be closed.
The Ramblers Retreat said: “Our partners at Forestry England will be keeping Dimmingsdale open to allow our local community to participate in their allowed exercise.
“Please respect all instructions and be kind to Forestry England staff and volunteers if you choose to visit the valley from the local community and remember to leave nothing but footprints and take nothing but photos.
“Rest assured, we’ll be back soon, welcoming you with lovingly homemade lunches, delicious desserts, cakes and barista-made drinks.
“Until then - take care and stay safe. Helen, Callum, Albie, Gary and all of Team Ramblers.”