Pubs ban under 25s saying they ‘cannot take the risk’ amid soaring youth coronavirus infections

Two pubs in Yorkshire have banned anyone under the age of 25 from entering saying they “cannot take the risk”, as coronavirus infections soar amongst young people.

The Oddfellows Arms in Sherburn-in-Elmet and The Angel Inn in Sheffield have said they will refuse to serve those aged between 18 and 25, with the former saying they would “rather have a safe environment than a place which is teetering on the risk of closure.”

It comes after the Government announced stricter limits on social gatherings over fears of a second wave of the deadly virus.

England's chief medical officer, Professor Chris Whitty, this week said cases were rising especially quickly among those aged 17 to 29.

The Oddfellows Arms in sleepy Sherburn-in-Elmet, on the outskirts of Leeds, said it took the decision to avoid "teetering on the risk of closure".

The pub wrote in a Facebook post: "In light of recent events and an escalation in cases we are now not serving anyone in the age bracket 18-25.

"We have thought about this very carefully, we will continue to try and ensure our community, customers and staff are all kept safe in these difficult times.

"Before anyone tries to say we are wrong, think of the implications for us as a business.

"This is not where we want to be. We would rather have a safe environment than a place which is teetering on the risk of closure.

"Please see that we are acting for everyone's best intentions at this time.

"We have some of the most amazing, well mannered customers in that age bracket, but we simply cannot take the risk.

"As soon as we feel safe to do so, we will ensure everybody knows. Thank you for your understanding."

The Angel Inn in Sheffield announced on Wednesday that anyone under the age of 25 was barred with immediate effect.

In a social media post, landlord David Sayle said: "Due to Covid-19 precautions, The Angel Inn will not be allowing any under 25s or any children, with immediate effect."

The UK's coronavirus infection rate has risen steeply in recent days, with another 2,919 daily confirmed cases being announced on Thursday, leading to warnings that people had "relaxed too much".