More pubs in Herefordshire have announced that they will be turning customers away from outside the county following an announcement from West Mercia Police earlier today that stated that 250-300 people from higher tier areas were turned away from pubs over the weekend and that one customer had travelled over 200 miles for a pint.
The Barrels joined the likes of The Spread Eagle and The Beefy Boys in announcing restrictions on drinkers from outside the county by saying:
“We will now only be allowing customers in with photo ID and proof of address. Driving license or passport with utility bill. We are happy in Tier 1 and would like to remain there. Sorry if this causes any disappointment but we need to protect our staff and customers. Thanks to all and Merry Christmas.”
It follows a statement released by West Mercia Police earlier today that stated….
From West Mercia Police:
After our first weekend with Herefordshire being in Tier One we sadly have a message for the those who don’t live and work here:
Please don’t come and visit, for now…
On Saturday night licensees turned away between 250 and 300 people who wanted to drink in local pubs but weren’t from Tier One addresses. One individual had travelled around 200 miles just to come to the pub.
Turning these people away was a decision by licensees and they had, and continue to have, our full support. Turning down trade must have been especially hard after the year they have had but they were doing it for absolutely the right reasons and in line with Government guidance.
We also saw how hard businesses were working to comply with Covid-19 safety measures; ensuring there was table service only, staff wearing masks and last orders at 10pm, with some making the decision to close earlier.
The weekend before Christmas we always have additional officers on patrol to ensure those out celebrating are doing so safely, this year was no exception, and we did have more to reassure the community around compliance with Covid-19 regulations and to support local businesses.
When we spoke to people who had travelled to drink here the vast majority were compliant and headed home. There was minimal disorder and thankfully only one Fixed Penalty Notice was required, where someone refused to wear a mask.
