Pub fends off Covid-19 social media claims

The Foundry’s owners, Whelen, said it was 'surprised and saddened' by speculation on social media.

READ MORE: Six more coronavirus cases in Portsmouth

It comes after claims were made that The Foundry didn't respond adequately after being informed that people who visited the pub had later tested positive for coronavirus.

The Foundry confirmed it received an email to say a customer had tested positive but insisted that it took all the right steps, including contacting Environmental Health. It also said that it was never contacted by NHS Test and Trace.

A spokesman said: ‘Since allegations surrounding The Foundry pub were raised we have been in close contact with Public Health England and the Public Health Team at West Sussex County Council.

‘They have confirmed that they have no evidence of The Foundry being linked to an outbreak of Covid-19 at this current time.

‘We are overwhelmingly happy that our team and customers are safe.

‘It is a truly awful virus and has devastated families and communities globally.’

The Foundry, based in Southgate, Chichester, said that, following the comments on social media, customers contacted them asking if it was safe to go to the pub.

The pub claimed that the accusations have 'ultimately put local jobs at risk'.

SEE ALSO: Headteacher says staff undergoing Covid-19 tests

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

Thank you for reading this story. The dramatic events of 2020 are having a major impact on our advertisers and thus our revenues.

The News is more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription to support our journalism. You can subscribe here for unlimited access to Portsmouth news and information online.

Every subscription helps us continue providing trusted, local journalism and campaign on your behalf for our city.