A pub in Cornwall has been fined £1,000 after people were found drinking alcohol inside the premises during lockdown. 

Cornwall Council’s Covid Enforcement Team has served a fixed penalty notice on the business after police discovered a group of men inside the pub drinking alcohol and listening to music.  

Under the current restrictions, hospitality venues including pubs, bars and social clubs must remain closed, with the exception of providing food and non-alcoholic drinks for takeaway until 11pm.

Councillor Rob Nolan, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Public Protection, said: “Lockdown is not over yet. In order for the current restrictions to be eased we must all do our bit to help bring case numbers down.

“These selfish individuals clearly knew they were breaking the rules and there is no excuse.

“We have worked with thousands of businesses across Cornwall to help them understand and implement the national restrictions. Now is not the time to be complacent and we will not hesitate to take action against those who disregard the law.”

Since the start of the pandemic, Cornwall Council has taken enforcement action against nine businesses for Covid breaches. 

The pub has 14 days to appeal the notice.

Businesses can find support and guidance regarding the latest restrictions on the Business Regulatory Support website.