Fife in Tier 3: Hospitality fears 'hard hitting' impact of no alcohol sales rule

The warning comes from the owners of Society in Kirkcaldy as they assess their options ahead of a ban on alcohol sales from Friday.

They are studying how viable it will be to trade without being able to sell booze indoor or outdoors.

Society, based in Charlotte Street, only recently installed marquees in its grounds to cater for customers.

Bryan Reid and Hamish Waterson, who run the bar as well as The Stag Inn, Falkland, gave an update on its Facebook page which thanked people for their support and noted: “Today’s announcement that Fife now moves into Tier 3 from Friday for an indefinite period, is particularly hard hitting and disappointing for the local hospitality industry, in what has been an already desperately challenging year.

“We have looked after thousands of you over the past months and have had zero links or association with anyone who has contracted Covid-19, this we are very grateful and thankful for.”

The owners said continuing to operate under Tier 3 restricting would be a massive task.

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They added: “There will be a further statement from ourselves later this week to whether or not we will intend to or be viably able to remain partially open in some capacity or form from Friday.

“From the experience of our friends over the water who have been in Tier 3 already, this looks doubtful.”

The bar will continue to serve alcohol with food inside and outside until 8:00pm, along with drinks only outside, up until 10.30pm close of business Thursday.

The owners added: “We thank all of our customers and local media outlets who have supported us positively and repeatedly since we re-opened our doors on July 6 after the 15-week lockdown.

We hope these new restrictions for Fife will be eased within the coming weeks ahead, in good time for the festive period.

“It’s all down to each and everyone of us to ensure this happens.

"Stay safe everyone, look after your loved ones and we will see you all again very soon.”

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