Portsmouth landlords and punters pleased to reopen - but those who fail to comply are warned

The long-awaited return of one of Britain’s favourite pastimes put a smile on landlords’ faces, as well as punters who braved the weather to unwind.

Things were different to last time customers stepped foot inside an establishment, though, with them having to follow new government measures to help control the virus.

Table service, two metre distancing, one-way systems, hand sanitising and staff wearing visors were among the key changes, along with a booking system to reserve seats.

Dan Swan, general manager of Eden in Gunwharf Quays, said he was pleased to reopen again albeit with a reduced capacity, ‘flexible’ three hour time slots and a changed opening time of 12-10pm.

‘We’re excited to finally be open again - it’s been a long time,’ he said. ‘We’ve worked hard getting everything ready and now we just want people to feel safe and relaxed.

‘It is all table service so there is no one at the bar which helps us control the customer flow - it is hard to control people at the bar. The only time people should leave their tables is to go to toilet.

‘If people adhere to the measures and there is space then we can let them stay longer. We are trying to get away from the late night drinking culture. A lot of it depends on the customers and how they behave.’

Deborah and Gary Pearson, visiting Gunwharf Quays from near Guildford, were pleased with the set-up after deciding to pop into Eden. ‘We just came here by chance and were allowed straight in without booking,’ Deborah, 56, said.

‘We’ve been made to feel very welcome and everything is very efficient and the food is great.’

Gary, 57, added: ‘Everything has been very thorough. It’s a bit intimidating handing over personal details when going in but that’s just how it is now.’

Zoe and Christine France, enjoying a drink and food at Eden, said: ‘It’s good seeing people in your bubble but it is nice to be able to go out and see people not in your house.

‘They have done a good job focusing on health and hygiene.’

Meanwhile, the Jolly Sailor pub on Clarence Parade in Southsea bucked the trend for table service but had two metre markers laid out to avoid gathering at the bar along with a one-way system.

A booking system and hand sanitising were also deployed on entry along with reminders about social distancing.

Landlord Ross McInally said: ‘We’re pleased to be open again. Everything is new to us and we’ve had to introduce a lot of things but the main thing is everyone is safe and happy.

‘We have to cater for everyone so if people disregard measures we will bring it to their attention before asking them to leave if necessary.

‘We need the public to work with us and show common sense.’

One punter, who did not want to be named, said: ‘It’s great to be back in the pub - it’s part of what we are as a country.

‘I hate queuing more than anybody but it is a necessary evil.’

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