‘We’re seeing devastating effects on business’: Chesterfield publicans fear for future after area placed into Tier 2 coronavirus lockdown

Household mixing in pubs, bars and restaurants was banned in Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire from Saturday after the areas were placed into Tier 2 on the Government’s coronavirus alert system.

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The British Beer and Pub Association said the Tier 2 rules make many pubs ‘totally unviable’ – and point out they are not eligible for any extra financial support from the Government, unlike businesses under Tier 3.

Many pubs are already struggling as a result of reduced custom since they reopened on July 4 – followed by last month’s introduction of the 10pm curfew and Rule of Six.

Louise Finney, manager of Chandlers on St Mary's Gate, said: “Chandlers has been committed to providing a safe and secure environment for our customers since reopening on July 4.

“We have followed every piece of guidance from the start – yet as the rules continue to get more and more harsh we are seeing devastating effects on the business.

“We have been here for 21 years and have an excellent customer base – but since we have entered Tier 2 restrictions, those customers we rely on are no longer able to come out and drink with their friends.

“We are not entitled to financial support to account for this loss of trade.”

She added: “We love seeing all of our customers, and would encourage people to support us and other small local venues over this difficult time.

“We fear many bars and other such businesses may not survive.”

Meanwhile, staff at the Crafty Dog on Chatsworth Road posted an impassioned plea on Instagram over the weekend.

They said: “The Tier 2 restrictions will pretty much halve our business at the Crafty Dog so we desperately need your help.

“Memories are built on nights outs with friends and meals with your family at your local pub.

“I pray that when my kids are older I don’t have to explain to them what a pub was and how amazing they were.

“We will keep fighting till the end but we need Government support now.”

Health Secretary Matt Hancock told the House of Commons on Monday that the Government had ‘supported the hospitality industry more than any other’.

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