The Bridge Inn at Kentchurch has temporarily closed after owners said they were treated like ‘criminals’ by local council officials and police.
The owners say they received a fine yesterday for having customers in from just over the border in Wales, despite legislation saying that, “People will be able to travel from Wales to tier one and two areas in England and Scotland from Friday 4th December.
“The new regulations prohibit travel into tier three zones in England, tiers three and four in Scotland and the whole of Northern Ireland.
“Previously people could only travel out of Wales if it was “essential”.
“These rules came into force on 4th December.”
A post on the pubs Facebook page said:
“With heavy hearts we have decided to close our doors. Our decision wasn’t easy but following the last few weeks and being constantly put down by the Police and Herefordshire with fines we can’t continue our services.
“What happened was, last night Thursday 10th December we were told that people from Wales were not allowed on our premises, not for a meal/alcohol or even a coffee. As we sit on the border, (in fact our namesake “The Bridge” is the border!), this task is impossible. We have not got in our hearts to refuse service to our friends and family. We want everybody feel welcome at The Bridge Inn.
“We won’t allow them to treat us like criminals and deal with their everyday changing and tiresome politics of the tier system.
“We have followed every rule to keep our customers and staff safe and we feel victimised by this.
“We will keep you updated on when our doors will open again. We will continue takeaways so please keep your eye on our website and social media.
“It was a tough year for all of us so let’s keep our spirits up and hope for a better 2021 and we see you all soon .We already miss you all …..♥️.”
