Preston's Guild Ale House avoiding Government's 'bonkers' reopening date

The Guild Ale House, like many other pubs, has been closed since March owing to the coronavirus crisis.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has now announced that pubs and restaurants can reopen from next weekend, July 4.

But the Guild Ale House says it won't be rushing into it.

The Lancaster Road venue posted on social media: "I know a few of you have been asking us if we are going to be opening on the 4th & the answer to that is unfortunately NO.

"For a few reasons, one being that we think its absolutely bonkers Boris has decided to allow pubs to open on a Saturday!

"Secondly we have a lot to think about / to sort out how best to open safely but still be an enjoyable place for all of you to visit.

"We just don't know how best to go about it, so this weekend we will hopefully get a plan in place.!"

The pub added: "We will update on all our socials so just keep an eye out.

"In the meantime, if you guys want to throw any ideas/ pros / cons about then please comment your views as we want it to work for all of you best we can."

One commentator on Twitter said: "A gradual mid-week lunchtime opening would be better than the bedlam of a busy weekend for pubs to relaunch."