A new pub is doing a roaring trade despite coronavirus lockdown restrictions – after opening for residents living in a CARE HOME.
The Chandler Arms boozer opened its doors for people living in Chandler Court over Christmas.
While thousands of pubs around the UK remain closed due to coronavirus, the 80 residents can still enjoy a pint with pals.
Staff at the care home in Bromsgrove, Worcs., which was in Tier 3 before the latest lockdown, puts on regular quizzes, cocktail nights and screens live sports on a giant TV.
Resident Martin Dowell, 80, said: “Back in the day, the pub was the life and soul of the community and a place to meet up, so it is great to get the chance to meet up with other residents in the home on a Friday afternoon for a pint and a chat.”
The pub offers a choice of discounted real ales, lagers and wines and residents are limited to six people being in the bar at one time and must abide by social distancing.
As well as the pub, the care home – which costs residents around £1,000-a-week for basic care – also has a cinema, café and hair salon.
Manager Dawn Covill said: “We all miss going to the pub, and in these challenging times, there’s nothing like catching up with an old friend over a drink or two, so when residents told us they missed their local, we thought we’d bring it to them.
“For many residents, the pub is associated with a lot of positive memories from their younger years, from their first-ever drink to countless hearty meals with family or friends, and everything in between.
“The Chandler Arms’ opening was a huge success and residents left with a smile on their face.
“Ironically, it turns out we’re the only pub in the UK to be unaffected by the tier restrictions, so we’re looking forward to our next pub night.”
