Kate writes a bi-weekly column for the Burton Mail. This column was originally featured in the 20th May print edition.
This week marked the third step in the Government’s roadmap for easing lockdown restrictions. Amongst the biggest changes was the reopening of indoor hospitality and pubs. This turned out to be well timed considering the weather we have been experiencing recently and I am delighted to see our pubs welcoming paying customers inside once again.
As the home of British brewing, Burton knows the importance of the Great British pub and the cornerstone they are to many communities across England. Pubs bring us together; they are a critical local employer and above all they are the best place to enjoy a locally brewed pint.
However, our pubs have had a difficult time with the pandemic and the lockdown restrictions, but many have worked to adapt and ensure they remain there for their community. Earlier this week, I visited The Leopard in Tutbury to present Landlord Nathan Christie with a ‘Covid Community Hero certificate’ on behalf of the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group (APPBG). This award was set up by the APPBG to recognise those pubs that had gone above and beyond during the pandemic to support their community and local residents. Throughout lockdown, Nathan and his team organised weekly meals and hampers with local takeaway companies to support his local community. It was a real pleasure to present Nathan with the Leopard’s certificate and to highlight its achievements over the past year.
Nathan’s commitment to his village is just one case of a publican going above and beyond to serve their residents when the community needed it most. Now they really need our help so please support your local. The hospitality sector as a whole has made huge changes to ensure they can welcome us back safely but it is important that we play our part by abiding by the safety measures and exercising caution. By doing so we can ensure we support our pubs and hospitality sector whilst we gradually return to a normal away of life.
