‘The last time York was in Tier 2, retail was down 40%’

Phil Pinder, vice chair of the York High Street Forum. Photograph: Richard McDougall

This from Phil Pinder, chair of the York Retail Forum.

“Obviously it’s devastating for hospitality businesses that we’re in Tier 2.

“It’s a real shame, given how York’s cases for the last two weeks have hit the floor.

“It’s great for retail that they can reopen. But I do have concerns.

“Last time York was put in to Tier 2 retail was down by more than 40%, as opposed to a drop of 20% in Tier 1.

“And this is a vital time for retailers. The money we take for the next four weeks will get businesses through to March.”