Reopened pubs served up 140 pints a minute

Sunderland pubs got a much-needed spending boost on Monday as thirsty customers were allowed indoors for the first time this year, new figures suggest.

Trade bodies have welcomed the further easing of coronavirus rules, but cautioned that the "fragile" hospitality sector is relying on all restrictions being removed before it can operate successfully.

Banking firm Revolut analysed the data of its 4,000 customers in Sunderland on Monday, and found that drinkers knocked back around 140 pints per minute at their peak.

Sunderland drinkers spent more than twice as much on average on Monday than normal.

The biggest spenders in the area were 35 to 44 yearold men, but they shelled out less – spending £8.91 per round, compared to the national average of £12.86.

Bars and restaurants in England were allowed to serve food and drinks indoors from Monday, following the return of outdoor hospitality on April 12.

Nationally, pub spending was still six per cent down on normal levels – because thousands of pubs are still closed or open with significantly reduced capacity, the British Beer and Pub Association said.

Emma McClarkin, BBPA chief executive, said: “This is by no means the end of the crisis for our sector. We need pubs fully reopened without any restrictions at all on June 21 if they are to survive and trade viably."

The figures also show that spending in restaurants and cafes in Sunderland on Monday was 19% lower than what would have been expected last year.