Cops on a Covid patrol ordered a pub to stop handing out tea and biscuits to the vulnerable.
They told staff proper meals would be OK – but just a cuppa broke the government’s coronavirus regulations.
Dexy’s Bar, on Arbroath Road, Dundee, had just announced it was opening three days a week to serve free teas, coffees and biscuits to help ensure local people were not isolated due to the pandemic.
Police visited and told staff they couldn’t stay open because they were not serving meals.
Derrick Murdoch, from Dexy’s, said: “The two police officers were very sorry they had to be the bearers of bad news and showed real genuine concern for the lonely people who were using our service.
“We didn’t realise we were breaking the rules and the police had to go through the new rule book themselves to explain to me why I couldn’t be open for this service for the community.
“They said they sympathised with the loneliness issue and possible mental health problems the current situation is creating.”
Mr Murdoch said the pub had hoped it would be able to support the Stobswell community – despite being unable to offer its normal service.
He said: “I genuinely didn’t think I was doing anything wrong.
“We just thought it would be nice to give people the chance to come out and get together for a little while over tea and biscuits.
“There is a mental health strain on everyone – young and old, rich or poor.
“There is no hiding place for anyone and we are all in the same boat.
“There is an enormous strain on the hospitality trade in Dundee and surely eventually that will actually put a strain on the government which will have to help the trade out financially.
“We at Dexy’s hold no grudges with the police for the action they have been forced to take.
"We will obviously adhere to this and hopefully things will improve in the next few weeks.”
Chief Inspector Ross Fitzgerald at Dundee said: “The Licensing Team has been working with the local authority and businesses across Tayside to provide up-to-date advice and guidance on the restrictions.
“The current regulations prevent licensed premises in a Tier 3 area, which does not provide a main meal, from opening to customers.
“On Thursday, 5 November, officers attended the premises prior to opening and relayed the current regulations, which staff were supportive of and adhered to.
“We are also committed to identifying vulnerable people and working with partners to ensure that they receive support they may need.”
