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31
Dec 2020
Harrogate district venues 'frustrated' by abrupt tier change
Pubs and restaurants in the Harrogate district have spoken of their frustration at the abrupt move into tier three just hours before their "biggest day of the year".
Hospitality venues across the district would usually be buzzing with excitement on New Year's Eve.
But instead most venues are closed, with only takeaways possible.
All the restaurant and cafe owners the Stray Ferret spoke to today agreed with the need for stricter restrictions but insisted more notice should have been given, as they have been left with unused stock.
Simon Cotton, managing director of the HRH Group whose properties include the Fat Badger, White Hart Hotel and the Yorkshire Hotel, said:
Mr Cotton said food would be wasted this weekend as charities are unable to make use of perishable items at such short notice.
Many businesses have been trying to use up stock.
The Smiths Arms in Beckwithshaw posted on Facebook it would donate to the Harrogate Hospital and Community Charity.
The Little Ale House micropub in Harrogate said it would be selling cask and keg beers at reduced prices.
Read more:
- Much-loved Harrogate pub, The Woodlands, is getting a face lift and a new name.
- Christies Bar landlord describes his "horrible" year of covid restrictions.
The Dining Room restaurant in Boroughbridge changed its business model this year by moving to daytime-only trade during the week and saving its fine dining for Friday and Saturday evenings.
The owners will continue with their plans to serve takeaways this evening but said yesterday's announcement would have a major impact on trade. Co-owner Chris Astley said:
Sarah Williams, runs Scarlett's Vintage Tea Rooms in Knaresborough, said she was expecting the announcement:
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