Chesterfield businesses react as Derbyshire remains in Tier 3 of coronavirus restrictions

Health secretary Matt Hancock revealed in the House of Commons earlier today that only two areas – Bristol and North Somerset – will move from Tier Three into Tier Two.

Hospitality venues in Chesterfield said the announcement they must stay closed over the festive period was ‘devastating’.

Claire Wood, owner of Stephensons Tea And Coffee House in Chesterfield, said: “The continued restrictions on not being able to open is continuing to have a devastating effect on our industry, and there seems to be very little logic with what we can/can’t do.

"We can have close contact within the beauty industry, sweat in the gym, but cannot sit in a Covid-secure coffee shop, restaurant or pub with a member of our family or bubble and enjoy a coffee and good food.

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“In the meantime, at Stephensons, we are selling beautiful Take Out Grazing Boxes packed with a great selection of food to enjoy Stephensons food on both Christmas and New Years Eve.

“The safety of our customers and staff remains our number one priority.”

Bosses at Newbold pub The Chesterfield Arms said the doors would have to remain closed over Christmas, and after spending ‘the majority of 2020 in darkness’ it was another ‘uncertain’ period.

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“As soon as its safe and viable to do so, we will throw open the doors again, ready to welcome you all back!” the pub posted on Facebook.

"In the meantime, please make use of our takeaway service this weekend, give us at least a fighting chance to get through this to the other side.”

Lewis Brown, who runs The Hop Flower pub at Inkersall, said a drop in infections locally should have resulted in a drop in tier.

"My main anger comes from the tarnishing and scare mongering from government imposed restrictions on our industry,” he said.

"If hospitality is a high cause of infection rates how come cases are still rising at an alarming rate when we have been closed for six weeks?”

A spokesperson for bowling alley Chesterfield Bowl said: “It’s another setback as we feel it’s very safe. I can go and play six-a-side football with different people, yet a family can’t come bowling.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.