Locked Down Pub Caught Red-Handed with 15 Drinkers Inside
At 5:45pm on Friday 27 November, a licensing officer spotted a shocking sight at Ceno on Highfield Lane – the pub’s door was ajar and about 15 people were drinking inside. This was during the national Covid-19 restrictions when all licensed venues were forced to remain shut.
Blatant Breach of Covid Rules
The officer quickly dispersed the crowd and confronted the owner. With no other option, a fixed penalty notice was slapped on the premises for a blatant lockdown breach.
Police and Council Crackdown Underway
southampton/" title="Southampton" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Southampton police are teaming up with the City Council to review the pub’s licence. PC Lee Scott from the licensing team said:
“We are working hard to ensure everyone observes the restrictions and stays safe during the pandemic. Where businesses break the rules, we act fast to reassure the community. The guidelines are clear – licensed venues must remain closed during lockdown to stop the virus spreading.
“It’s very disappointing that this restaurant allowed around 15 people to drink at the bar, breaking the regulations. We hope this sends a strong message – breaching Covid rules will be dealt with firmly to keep everyone safe.”