Second Somerset pub closes after customer tests positive for coronavirus

A second pub in Burnham-on-Sea has closed after a customer tested positive for coronavirus.

In a Facebook post The Somerset & Dorset confirmed it was shutting down after receiving the information, days after pubs reopened to members of the public.

A spokesperson said it would be closed while staff members get tested for the virus and a full deep clean can be carried out.

Customers who visited on the weekend have been told they will be contacted by NHS Track and Trace.

The pub's closure follows a Facebook post by bosses on Monday 6 July.

It said, "With regards to rumours, we have not had notification from the government to close as of yet and the person in question did not come into the S&D on Saturday night. Apparently, the person did try, but we had already called last orders and shut our doors."

Today (Friday 10 July) another post said a Public Health England consultant confirmed the pub could reopen, but the decision has been made to stay closed until all staff test results come back.

The Somerset & Dorset is the second pub in the Somerset town to close since the further easing of lockdown restrictions on Saturday (4 July).

The Lighthouse confirmed two days after its reopening that a customer who visited the pub on so-called 'Super Saturday' had received a positive test result.

Customers were alerted on social media and bosses at The Lighthouse contacted everyone who frequented the premises.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock praised managers for their response.

A nearby takeaway, Saagar Indian Takeaway, also had to close because one of its delivery drivers had visited.

It is not yet clear whether the customer who visited The Somerset & Dorset is the same as the one who visited The Lighthouse.