Sheffield publicans 'devastated' by Tier 3 decision

Sheffield is currently still subjected to Tier 3 restrictions, along with most parts of England, following the latest government review on Thursday.

That means cafes, restaurants and pubs must remain closed other than for takeaways, collections and deliveries, while households are banned from mixing indoors or in private gardens.

Already feeling the pinch due to the prolonged restrictions, Blue Ball pub in Worrall said it was devastated by the decision.

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In a Twitter post, it wrote: "South Yorkshire remains in Tier 3, despite being no evidence to suggest you are more at risk here than anywhere else that is open.

"We are of course devastated. Thank you for your messages of love and hope and support, and promise that when we can open, we will still be here.

"We have invested too much personally and financially to walk away now."

The owners of the Old Harrow pub in Grenoside said they would remain closed over the festive period following the Government's review, despite only having been there since January.

They wrote on their Facebook page: "As a family and team, we would like to say a huge thank you to all that have entered through the doors this year and welcomed us into the beautiful village of Grenoside and to the exceptionally wonderful pub that is the Old Harrow Inn.

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"It's been a difficult first year for us (yes... it will be a year we have been here in January!) BUT the support we have received has been heartwarming and we will still be here when the time comes to safely reopen the doors.

"All that remains to be said is, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. We hope to be back behind the bar serving you all soon."

On Thursday, health secretary Matt Hancock said only three areas in England could move down a tier but existing restrictions remained in other parts of the country due to the pressure on the NHS.

He said although South Yorkshire has improved marginally, it is still of concern as case rates remain over 150 per 100,000 in those aged over 60 in Barnsley and Doncaster.

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In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a digital subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.