Manchester pub owners urge drinkers to behave responsibly to stem virus spread

Local pub owners have come together to urge drinkers to behave responsibly in light of the current measures in place across Greater Manchester.

The joint statement has been issued by pub groups including Admiral Taverns, Greene King, Hydes, Joseph Holt Brewery, JW Lees, Marston’s PLC, Punch Pubs & Co., Robinsons Brewery, Star Pubs & Bars and Stonegate Pub Company.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has given us all a new set of responsibilities,” say the pub owners.

“They are responsibilities that we all take incredibly seriously and we know that we all have an important role to play in ensuring the virus is controlled in Greater Manchester and beyond.

“It is vital that the trade and all industry stakeholders continue to follow the Government guidance on measures to restrict the spread and keep venues safe. In particular we continue to support the track and trace measures in collecting customer details every time that they visit a pub wherever possible.”

“We also call on the public to accept their role here too, working with pubs, bars and restaurants in following guidance put in place, respecting staff and providing their contact details in support of track and trace.

“It is in everyone’s best interests that we continue to act responsibly and restrict the virus wherever we can.”

The unprecedented joint statement has also been backed by the Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham, and Sacha Lord, Night Time Economy Adviser.

“I have called for the safe return of the pub and hospitality industry and I welcome the fact that the majority are complying with all the government guidelines, but the majority are being let down by the minority who are not taking the regulations seriously,” said Andy Burnham. 

“I am happy to support the sector but we do need the whole industry to step up.

“I am also asking the public to continue to follow the guidelines that are in place to keep them safe. Most people are doing so, but some are not and I urge those people to think twice.

“If you get Coronavirus, you may not know, and spread the infection further in your home and your community.

“We are all adjusting to a new situation, and I know it is difficult, but now is not the time to give up. We must all work to reduce the rates of infection within our city-region.”

The public must play their part in helping to stop the spread of Coronavirus, urges Sacha.

“It is on us to respect social distancing, track and trace and all of the measures that are in place to keep us safe,” he said.

“While some may feel that they aren’t in the ‘at risk’ age group, it is their family and grandparents at home who they are putting at risk and I urge them to consider that when planning a night out with large groups.

“The majority of venues are working extremely hard to keep customers and staff safe, and I thank them for that.

“It is only by working together that we can overcome this devastating time for the sector.”