Police to visit South Yorkshire pubs to check they are closed during coronavirus outbreak

The government ordered the closure of pubs, clubs, restaurants and a host of other venues last Friday to help reduce the spread of Covid-19.

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South Yorkshire Police has vowed to visit premises to ensure rules are not being flouted.

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The force said: “It is important that we all adhere to these new guidelines and do what we can to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“We understand that members of the public may be concerned around premises that continue to remain open.

“We want to reassure you that we will listen to your concerns, and, where necessary, visit these premises and ensure the owner, proprietor or manager is complying with the legislation.”

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Superintendent, Paul McCurry, added: “On Friday, the Prime Minister confirmed that pubs and clubs would be closed from Saturday.

“Only premises that offer a take away service are permitted to remain open and even then steps must be taken to ensure nothing is consumed on the premises.

“This is now a Statutory Instrument making it an offence. These measures are necessary to ensure social distance and to protect our communities and the NHS from Covid-19.

“The police will respond to reports that any premises remain open to ensure compliance with the legislation.”

Pubs, restaurants, cafes, bars, nightclubs, cinemas, theatres, concert halls, bingo halls, museums, galleries, spas, massage parlours, casinos, betting shops and indoor leisure and sports facilities, including gyms, have all bee ordered to close.