‘A trouble free day’: Northampton pub landlord on his successful reopening

A pub landlord who opened his doors for the first in months this weekend says the day was ‘trouble free’.

Fiddlers, in Wellingbrough Road, welcomed back staff and regulars for the first time in over three months as pubs were allowed to reopen on Saturday (July 4).

Darren Kyrstie, landlord of the pub, was pleased with how the reopening went and was glad to be able to welcome customers once again.

In a Facebook comment, Darren said: “We had a very successful return to an industry that I have dedicated 17 years of my life to, everybody adhered to the new rules set out and it was a trouble free day!

“I’m extremely proud of each and every customer that walked through my doors over a 12-hour period which was an enjoyable experience after three and a half months of not serving our local community.

“We had six staff working for the opening day including two door staff who worked all day.

“Obviously an expensive first day for us staffing wise but we couldn’t afford to take any chances as far as customers and staff health are concerned so we made sure there was enough staff at hand to make sure all the new rules were adhered to.

“It’s been a very difficult period for all that have been out of work due to the Covid pandemic and we have all got to do our bit to make sure we don’t go into a second lockdown, although we’re not able to serve the night time economy at the minute we’re just happy to be back at work.”

Overall, the town centre was not as busy as some may have expected on reopening day, as pubs implemented tight restrictions and drinkers respected rules.

Northamptonshire Police reported ‘good compliance’ on reopening day, although they did have to close down one pub in the east of the county and attend an illegal rave at Brixworth Country Park.Message from the editor:

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