Derbyshire pubs reveal last orders times and other rules under new coronavirus restrictions
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On Monday Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a package of measures designed to help slow the spread of coronavirus and reduce the number of infections, including a 10pm curfew for pubs and bars from Thursday, September 24.
Since then, hospitality companies in Derbyshire have begun preparing for the rule changes, which are enforceable by fines of up to £10,000 for businesses.
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Hide AdThe Black Bull in Bolsover confirmed all customers must wear a face coverings upon entry and at all times other than when seated, unless there is a medical exemption. This includes when going to the toilet, smoking area or when leaving, a spokesperson said.
Pub staff will also take orders from tables and bring drinks to customers. Under the new rules, it is now against the law to order at the bar. And there will be no opportunity to order drinks as close to 10pm as possible.
A Black Bull spokesperson said: “We will be calling last orders at 9.30pm every night which will give you plenty of time to finish up, say your distanced goodbyes and put back on the mask in time before we close at 10pm.
“We ask you help us to reduce the risks to staff and other customers.”
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Hide AdAudrey Foster, who works front of house at The Market Pub, Chesterfield, said the bell for last orders will be rung at 9.30pm and everyone must leave at 10pm, ‘even if people have got a full pint’.
She said: “We’re a bit gutted but this is what it is. There’s nothing else we can do, we’re sticking by the guidelines.”
A staff member at Spa Lane Vaults, a Weatherspoons pub, said they will be take last orders at 9.30pm from Thursday. Customers will also have to wait behind a rope at the entrance and complete a Track & Trace form in front of staff before being seated.
A staff member at The Crafty Dog also confirmed last orders there would be at 9.30pm with all customers required to leave by 10pm. Face masks must also be worn when visiting the toilet.