Police have more than enough to do currently amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, so we are sad to report that enforcing lockdown is unfortunately amongst them.
The licensee of a pub in the Sheffield area is one sorry example of putting money ahead of the health of his customers and neighbours.
The sacrifices that millions of people and businesses are making during this lockdown period are being mocked.
They are being mocked by publicans and customers, wasting time and resources needed to combat Covid-19. Selfish people aiding the spread of this lethal disease.
Pubs flouting Covid-19 lockdown – the Pitsmoor Hotel, Sheffield
Last Friday police were called to the Pitsmoor Hotel, a pub in Sheffield by concerned locals. The pub was open and serving drinks as passers-by noticed and then reported.
On arrival South Yorkshire Police found drinkers hiding in cupboards when they raided the pub.
South Yorkshire Police and immediately issued a prohibition order forcing the pub to close and cease serving drinks to the public, breaking Covid-19 lockdown regulations.
Police said the pub’s alcohol licence is now under review.
Pubs flouting Covid-19 lockdown – The Staffordshire Arms, Sheffield
John O’Malley, Liquor Licensing Manager at South Yorkshire Police, said: “On Friday night, officers attended the premises and found a number of people hiding in cupboards, the pub was clearly still open for business.
“What makes this more significant, is that the licence holder has already been served a prohibition notice under the legislation for another premise, The Staffordshire Arms on Sorby Street.
“Licences for both venues are now under review by ourselves and Sheffield City Council, so there could be long-term implications for these businesses.”
In March, the government ordered the closure of pubs, restaurants and other businesses to reduce the spread of Covid-19.
Under the legislation, licensees commit an offence through opening and will be given a prohibition notice and fined.
Owners who choose to flout the law will be prosecuted if the prohibition notice is broken and magistrates can impose unlimited fines.
Cllr Bob Johnson, cabinet member for transport and development at Sheffield City Council, said: “These restrictions are in place to protect everyone from the spread of coronavirus.
“Hundreds of people are still dying in the UK amidst this pandemic and whilst I am heartened by the sacrifices the vast majority of individuals and responsible businesses are making during this lockdown period, it seems some appear to believe they can ignore the regulations and in doing so risk spreading the virus.”
Cllr Bob Johnson speaks for most fair minded people.
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