Buckinghamshire's hospitality sector gets ready to close for 2020
It's the last day of trading for some ahead of Tier 3 restrictions
Last updated 18th Dec 2020
Businesses across Buckinghamshire are getting ready to close their doors for 2020 tonight.
The hospitality sector will have to close except for takeaway and delivery when Tier 3 restrictions kick-in.
It's a blow for many who have been trying to keep customers coming in since lockdown ended at the start of the month.
We spoke to David Berry who owns Temple Street Wine Bar about his hopes for 2021:
"Well I think it all comes down to one word, quite frankly: Survival.
"I mean clearly there is the possibility we might not open again until, well, who knows? It could be end of February, beginning of March.
"If we can get through to the end of February then I think things would look great this year."
David also runs a pub in Dinton, which we told us had been more popular than the town centre venue, as people sought to avoid town centres.
Many businesses affected
Several venues will have to shut tonight, after a very difficult year.
MP for Aylesbury Rob Butler has voiced his concerns for the hospitality industry.
He said:
"Just a fortnight ago, local people were told that the onerous restrictions of Tier 2 would lead to a rapid return to normality and freedom, and yet today they find they've been cast into the harshest regime of Tier 3.
"The sudden change is especially difficult for local hospitality businesses who have already ordered food and drink for the days ahead. Much of it will now go to waste, adding still further to the money lost by these firms.
"I have immediately written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer to say that it is imperative there is extra financial help for the local restaurants, bars, pubs and other companies who have been plunged to the brink of financial ruin through no fault of their own."
Chesham's panto postponed
The arts sector is also affected by Tier 3 measures.
Chesham's Elgiva Theatre were planning a short run of a panto over Christmas but now that's had to be cancelled.
The management is working hard to work out an exact schedule of performances and will be in touch with customers as soon as possible.
The panto has proved extremely popular with well over 75% of the socially-distanced capacity booked before the run even started.
The theatre is thankful to everyone that booked tickets, but the numbers mean we have a logistical feat ahead of us, so the theatre asks for patience while we sort everything out.
The theatre, which is wholly owned and operated by Chesham Town Council, is producing its pantomime with New Pantomime Productions.
Theatre Manager David Cooper commented:
“We are so grateful for the continued support of our customers and community.
"We are heartbroken not to be able to open with a bang on Saturday night, but the safety of our customers, staff and volunteers is paramount. We look forward to dusting off our frocks and polishing our spindles in 2021 – after all, the show must go on!”
Has your business been affected by Tier 3 measures or have you found a way to adapt this year? Drop us an email and let us know.