Local pub set to open its doors after 4 months of uncertainty
The Hingemakers Arms in Ashton-in-Makerfield will reopen on the 17th of May for the first time this year.
The date marks the next phase of Government relaxation of coronavirus restrictions with Prime Minister Boris Johnson set to announce that pubs, restaurants, and other hospitality venues can seat customers indoors.
The Hingemakers is one of ten local pubs in the area, it is also one of eight pubs that have opted to remain closed until indoor sitting is permitted.
The hospitality industry has seen the biggest decline in payroll in the UK, having lost £297k between February and November 2020.
David Lyon is a part-owner of the Hingemakers Arms, he said: “Pubs will eventually close and it could be a case of survival of the fittest.”
As of March 2021. 1 in 5 hospitality businesses had “low confidence” that their business would survive the next 3 months.
He added: “We are quite confident as we are lucky enough to own the building so weren’t stuck with any rent implications.”
Approximately 2,500 pubs are estimated to have closed for good in 2020.
He explained the reasoning behind their choice to open on the 17th of May, stating: “Us owners are not there on a daily basis and felt it would be unfair to ask staff to manage the problems outdoor opening would bring, on a rainy day for example.”
They will be able to serve drinks indoors to people in groups of up to six as of next Monday.
Mr. Lyon further discussed some of the challenges the pandemic has posed, he stated: “As we are a wet sales pub only, managing the Covid rules was tricky with no substantial meal or eat out to help out available.
“Having to remind customers to wear masks, remain seated, fill in track and trace is not really conducive to a happy work experience for staff.”
They have also received a government grant to refurbish the interior ahead of the reopening and the public are looking forward to its return.
Eryl Cross, 70, lives in Ashton and has been a regular at the Hingemakers for over 40 years.
She said: “The people that you see there. You see them every week and you’re just so friendly with them. Most of those people that go to the pub I’ve known for 45 years.
“It’s very much a community pub. My husband is a part of a group from the pub who play on the bowling green and go back for a drink afterward. So, it’s a big part of the Hingemakers now.”
Economic output in the hospitality sector was down 90% in April 2020 compared to February 2020.
Mr. Lyon outlined his hopes for the future after restrictions are lifted, he said: “What I’m most looking forward to is seeing friendly faces and the noise of chit-chat. To welcome back our lovely staff.
“More than anything, I’m looking forward to June when social distancing measures can be relaxed and the environment can return to something like normality.”
