West Bridgford bar fined over seating says 'parks more crowded'

Four tables were placed in the corners of the fenced off area

A bar has been fined and issued with a prohibition notice over a "blatant disregard" for coronavirus rules.

Zinc, in West Bridgford, Nottingham, was seen serving pints and coffees with customers sitting outside and inside.

Rushcliffe Borough Council said customers were seen eating and drinking inside and outside the bar, in breach of its temporary takeaway licence.

Matt Turner, who part-owns Zinc, said: "We put out tables but well apart - it was more crowded in the park."

The council said it was alerted to the issue on Tuesday and served the notice the next day.

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One member of the public told the BBC it felt like the bar "had rubbed salt into the wound of what other companies are trying to do and keep us all protected".

Cabinet portfolio holder for environment and safety Rob Inglis said: "We always look to advise and educate business owners to their responsibilities with any licence but when there is blatant disregard for its rules we take any breach very seriously."

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The bar has been fined £100 and cannot serve food or drink on the premises, but still can operate as a takeaway, until new measures are agreed.

Mr Turner said: "I have done lots of work with mental health and supporting people and I know isolation and loneliness is hitting people hard.

"It was sunny so we put out tables but well apart - it was more crowded in the local park and in some of the food shops.

"The regulars came and we served a few beers but accept that was a mistake."