Council apologises for scaremongering Tweet which said coronavirus would be inside Sheffield pubs waiting for drinkers

Opposition councillors, the Campaign for Real Ale and pub landlords all condemned the tweet, which was later deleted.

It read: "Great news that the pubs are opening this weekend, right? Do you know who is happiest? Coronavirus. The virus loves crowded places and thrives on close contact. It won't be queuing to get inside the pub - it will already be there waiting for you."

Coun Shaffaq Mohammed, leader of Sheffield Liberal Democrats, said: "We all know that the virus is still around and we have to take sensible steps to reduce the risk of it spreading but this was over the top and won't help our local economy to recover."

Green councillor Douglas Johnson said it undermined the Director of Public Health’s advice.

“This was obviously a thoughtless tweet and I am glad it was taken down after public comments.

“The fantastic pubs in Kelham Island in my ward are family-run businesses and have gone to lengths to operate safely as well as they can in the lockdown.

"Like all small businesses, it’s been a time of great hardship and uncertainty. They need our support, both from the council and from the public.”

Dave Pickersgill, pubs officer with CAMRA, complained to the council, saying: "The tweet was not constructive or helpful. It was in poor taste and does nothing to assist the many local hospitality businesses which have been closed for over 100 days.

"We also note that nothing similar was posted when shops reopened and there is no acknowledgement of the work which has occurred in order to allow a limited number of establishments to reopen tomorrow. We are disappointed. We expected better from Sheffield Council."

And Liz Aspden, of the Harlequin pub on Nursery Street, said: "Publicans have been spending long hours - and significant amounts of money - planning to re-open their pubs safely within the guidelines set out by the government.

"The original tweet was very damaging to a trade which is just trying to get back on its feet, and made no recognition of the fact that we'll be doing our utmost to create a safe environment."

Coun Mazher Iqbal, Cabinet member for business and investment at the council, has apologised, saying the tweet was badly worded but written with best intentions.

“We are in a difficult situation, we want to support our local pubs and venues but we must also remember that we are still in the middle of a serious pandemic.

“We're working with partners across the city to make sure people can go out and enjoy themselves but everyone must also adhere to the safety guidance. This guidance is not just for those visiting these venues but also to protect staff in these venues.

"We must reinforce this message as we do not want a spike in the city. We want people to enjoy themselves this weekend, visit your favourite pub, cafe or restaurant, but to do so in a safe and measured way.

“Follow the guidance, keep your distance, wash your hands and stay safe. I know that our businesses have done all they can to make sure people can follow this guidance and I want to thank them for their efforts in doing this.”

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