Publicans across York will be hoping this isn’t a taste of things to come.
Shaun Collinge, landlord of multi-award winning pub The Maltings, would normally expect it to be heaving on a Saturday afternoon.
But this video shows the Tanner’s Moat venue totally deserted, just hours after York was put into the new Tier 2 restrictions.
Shaun shared it with this forlorn message: “View from the bar – it’s Saturday afternoon..!! #Tier2Life“
The new Tier 2 regulations mean it’s now illegal for people in York to socialise indoors with people outside their household.
It brought a dismayed response from so many who love the Maltings and York’s amazing range of pubs more generally.
Rachel tweeted: “That’s dreadful Shaun, where’s it all going to end… don’t answer that! Heartbreaking for businesses”
Wig said: “They’re killing you, Shaun. It’s heartbreaking. I’ve been in that place and working behind the bar too when you can’t even move it’s that busy…and now this.”
And Craig agreed: “Heartbreaking how much sweat and passion has gone into building these businesses for them to be ripped apart by rulings made 250 miles away.”
The British Beer & Pub Association (BBPA) said the Tier 2 Covid-19 measures will “decimate” pubs unless they receive further government support – and could lead to permanent closures in the sector.
BBPA chief executive Emma McClarkin said the tighter measures will leave “most pubs fighting for their very survival”.