Man says Tesco needs further restrictions to prevent ‘selfish’ panic buying

A PUB has closed on-site trade but has launched as a takeaway drive-through to help stem the coronavirus.

The Fox & Hounds at Lulsley, near Worcester, has closed to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 but has instead set up a new takeaway service.

Customers will order over the phone and collect their food via the ‘drive-through’ front bar hatch.

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Man says Tesco needs further restrictions to prevent ‘selfish’ panic buying

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Manager Tom Clarke, from Worcester, said: “This move is likely to result in a severe financial hit. However, after a group meeting with the owner, our chefs and my assistant manager, we felt this was the truly responsible measure to make at this time of national crisis.”

He added: “We did not feel comfortable putting our customers, staff and community at potential risk. Health will always trump money.

“At this time of crisis, where the situation is likely to deteriorate, we felt this is the responsible thing to do. We hope our local community will agree and will continue to support the pub through our new takeaway menu.”

Mr Clarke, aged 26, said all staff go through extensive and thorough sanitising measures to ensure social distancing and the highest levels of hygiene are maintained. Customers will drive to the front bar hatch to collect their food without needing to leave their vehicle.

Mr Clarke said trade has been affected due to the pandemic. The family run pub, which opened its doors to punters in 2017, was due to have over 200 bookings for Mother’s Day on Sunday.

The pub posted on its Facebook page: “Extraordinary circumstances require extraordinary measures.

“For the good of our customers, staff and our community we have taken the heart-breaking decision to close all on-site trade for the time being.

Formerly crowned Worcestershire Pub of the Year 2019 at the National Pub and Bar Awards, it hopes to return to normal day-to-day trade as soon as possible when it is safe to do so.

Its takeaway service incorporates a range of pub classics.

The takeaway service is available from Monday to Friday 12pm to 2pm, 5pm to 8pm, and Saturday to Sunday 12pm to 8pm.

Call 01886 821 228 to place an order.