Rise in Covid cases closes pubs in Kingsbridge

A rapid rise in the number of Covid-19 cases in the area has led to most of the pubs in Kingsbridge to close, either long term or temporarily. 

Currently in Kingsbridge, the Crabshell has closed until further notice, the King of Prussia closed on Monday, with the hope to reopen on Wednesday morning at 11am following a deep clean, the Creeks End has closed inside and is only serving customers on the tables outside at the front of the pub, and the Hermitage is hoping to reopen at midday on Wednesday following a deep clean. The Regal Club reopened fully on Monday after closing for a few days for a deep clean of the pub. 

It looks as though the Dodbrooke Inn is staying open. 

This comes as the number of laboratory-confirmed cases in the South Hams climbs to 29 and the case rate per 100,000 people in the Salcombe, Malborough and Thurlestone area is up to 96.8. 

[The Government interactive map states “Case rates are shown per 100,000 people for the 7-day period ending on the date shown. We calculate this by dividing the 7-day total by the area population and multiplying by 100,000. This makes it easier to compare cases across areas of different population size.” coronavirus.data.gov.uk/details/interactive-map] 

Devon County Councillor Roger Croad released the local numbers on Monday, saying: “Cases of the Delta (Indian) variant has risen to 272 in Devon alone, and we are expecting further rises in the week ahead, with a significant number coming in as I write this, while we catch up with the rest of the country. 

“Of the 1,691 current cases in the Peninsula, just 99 are aged over 60 with Cornwall providing half of those. 

20th June to 26th June there were 566 laboratory confirmed cases in Devon (29 in South Hams and 67,197 in England).

“So, currently confirmed cases per 100,000: Devon 70.5; England 119.4 and South Hams 33.3.

“I am pleased to say, 17 to 23 June, there were AGAIN no Covid-related deaths in the Peninsula, [there were] 81 in England.”

As the cases rise, the pubs took the choice to close for either short periods, or longer terms.

The King of Prussia team posted on social media, saying: “We are sorry to announce we have had to take the sad decision to close due some customers testing positive to Covid-19. This decision has been made to protect our staff and customers. 

“We will perform a deep clean and reopen again at 11am on Wednesday if all goes to plan. Our thoughts are with our customers who have sadly tested positive and we hope you all stay safe at this time.

“We look forward to welcoming you all back soon.”

The owner of the Crabshell, Simon Harrow, put out a statement on behalf of himself and his team that said: “After much consultation and examination of the latest data around the South Hams, we have taken the very difficult decision to close up the Crabshell, from today.

“There are an abundance of new cases of the virus around and we feel it would be safest and wisest, for staff and customers, if we take this precautionary measure. 

“The team will be monitoring the situation on a daily basis and keeping up-to-date with national and local guidance before any date set for re-opening.

“Please accept our humblest apologies for any bookings that are in the diary for today and this coming week. We will be in touch with all diners as soon as possible and wish to thank everyone for support, kindness and [pray] we see you again soon.”

The Creeks End team said: “Out of an abundance of caution, we have taken the decision for the safety of our staff and customers to only serve outside for the time being due to the rising cases in the South Hams.

“We thank everyone of our customers for the continued support!

“Please remember to wear your masks inside the pub when using the loos, keep social distancing and DO NOT sit on a table unless a member of staff has advised you to. 

“Please do not attend the pub if you are feeling unwell or show ANY signs of COVID-19.”

The Kingsbridge Information Centre posted on behalf of the Hermitage, saying: “The Hermitage Inn is also closed until midday on Wednesday. This is only a precautionary measure while they undertake a deep clean in light of recent reports from other local pubs. Thank you for your understanding at this time.”

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