News

As you are probably all aware it will be possible to open outside bars in Wales as from Monday 13^th July. The Club Board carefully considered opening over weekends commencing Friday 17^th July. That option would have entailed opening the present outside area and extending seating on to the car park. Toilet facilities would be provided, operating a one way system (in through the side door of the back bar and then out through the bottom door on to the Car Park). After due consideration, it was finally decided that we would not open as yet.

Factors which led to that decision included:-

• Two metre distancing would severely restrict the number of customers who could access seating.
• Access to the Bar would not be allowed and a waiter service would have to be organised.
• Customers would be expected to book a place and to provide contact details.
• Monitoring and cleaning the toilet area would be difficult when access should be restricted and appropriate washing facilities provided.
• The potential number of customers would be very much weather dependant.
• Restricting the number of customers to the number of spaces available at tables would be a problem, as would ensuring that social distancing is maintained, particularly after a few drinks.
• Some consideration was given to opening for members only but with a number of access points to the site this would have to be managed very carefully and the employment of security staff would be required. Also what would you do if a group included customers who were not members of the Club.

The Board are well aware of the fact that the decision will be disappointing for many of our members but on balance it was felt that we were not in a position, at present, to open safely.

We are aware that the regulations may change from 3^rd August when it may be possible to open the bars with a relaxation of the two metre social distancing regulation. The Board will therefore be carefully monitoring the situation, first at a meeting to be held on 15^th July and then as we receive further guidance and detailed information. Our prime concern is that we adapt in order to comply with regulations and provide as safe an environment as we possibly can for the benefit of all our customers and staff.

I will do my best to keep you all updated with the hope that we will all be able to safely access the Club as soon as possible.