Joint patrols to help pubs in Cannock Chase district stick to latest coronavirus rules

Police in Cannock Chase are joining forces with the local council to help town centre pubs in the district prepare for the weekend ahead and the new coronavirus rules.

Indoor hospitality including pubs and restaurants have been able to serve food and drink inside their premises since Monday (17 May) in line with step three of the government's unlocking roadmap.

In order to prepare for what may be a busy weekend of trading, officers from Cannock Chase neighbourhood policing team (NPT) will be accompanying licensing officers from Cannock Chase District Council on Friday (21 May) to visit town centre pubs across the district.

The purpose of the visits is to help staff ensure that customers are adhering to the restrictions and there are appropriate measures in place in order to keep everyone safe.

The visits will also enable officers to discuss the measures that premises have in place, or plan to bring in, in order to prepare for the UEFA European Championships – particularly when England are due to play Scotland on 18 June.

Sergeant Mark Burslem, of Cannock Chase NPT, said: “This joint effort will help officers identify any areas of concern for staff and customers of pubs across the district and will enable council officers to assist licensed premises to put measures in place where necessary to keep staff and customers safe.

“Of course, we want people to enjoy themselves when visiting indoor premises for the first time, but we all have a responsibility to continue to protect each other from the virus and not waste our efforts so far.”

The latest rules include:

• Groups of up to six – or two households – are allowed inside premises
• Groups of up to 30 may be sat outside
• Landlords must make sure all customers over 16 check in with track and trace or record their contact details in an appropriate way
• People must order, eat and drink, while seated
• When not seated, customers should wear face coverings
• Social distancing between groups is encouraged.

Councillor Bryan Jones, Deputy Leader and Safety & Partnerships Portfolio Leader at Cannock Chase Council, said: “Council officers regularly visit licensed premises in the district. 

“This has become more important during the pandemic and especially as we are now in step three of the government’s roadmap out of lockdown. 

“This joint operation will help identify any issues for both staff and customers and ensure that everyone is safe whilst using licensed premises across the district.”

To find out more about the latest coronavirus restrictions relating to indoor premises, visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/restaurants-offering-takeaway-or-delivery.

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