Newark Police say pubs re-opening has gone smoothly in Newark and Sherwood after the coronavirus lockdown

Policing of Newark pubs has on the whole gone smoothly since premises re-opened on July 13, but with a few exceptions.

Inspector Heather Sutton, responsible for neighbourhood policing in Newark, said: “On the whole our licensed premises have been very well prepared for opening after lockdown and things in the town centre have run reasonably smoothly.

“However, there have been a few recent incidents that have caused me some concern, including members of the public attempting to gain entry to premises when they have already been told by door staff that those premises are full.

“That kind of behaviour puts others at risk and is clearly not acceptable.

“We have had a dedicated policing team in place since re-opening to help keep people safe in Newark’s night-time economy and will continue to work closely with licensees and other partners to ensure they are providing a safe environment for people to enjoy.

“As we have done throughout the coronavirus pandemic we will seek to engage with people, to explain things to them and to encourage them to comply.

“Enforcement action will only be taken as a last resort.”

Pubs and restaurants were subject to a three-month enforced closure to help stop the spread of covid-19.