Supporters’ hopes of celebrating pubs reopening by watching next Saturday’s East Midlands’ derby between the Rams and Nottingham Forest in their favourite local, appear to have been dashed.
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson revealed the government’s latest measures for easing lockdown, which included the opening of pubs along with hairdressers, barbers, bingo halls and various other industries.
That news was greeted with joy around Nottingham and Derby, with fans planning on going out with friends and watching next Saturday’s televised 12:30pm kick-off at Pride Park - a game which will be played without supporters for the first time.
In a cruel twist for those supporters desperate for an ale with their friends, the guidance released on Wednesday morning advises pubs against screenings of live football matches where fans are likely to scream and shout, whilst also reiterating pub-goers should only socialise with one other household inside.
The fresh guidance says all venues "should ensure that steps are taken to avoid people needing to unduly raise their voices to each other.
“This includes, but is not limited to, refraining from playing music or broadcasts that may encourage shouting, including if played at a volume that makes normal conversation difficult.
"This is because of the potential for increased risk of transmission, particularly from aerosol transmission."
It also says "loud background music, communal dancing, group singing or chanting" should be prevented.”
