WEST Somerset is rising to the challenge of finding ways to survive the latest coronavirus lockdown, despite daunting difficulties, business leaders said this week.
Despite this latest blow to their livelihoods, an increasing number of cafes, bars and restaurants will be providing takeaway services and more firms are developing online trading and home delivery in an attempt to keep afloat during the next four weeks.
But hospitality businesses have expressed concern that lockdown restrictions will keep visitors away from the town during the run-up to Christmas, particularly up to 3,000 people a week who were due to stay at Butlin’s.
A statement to visitors said: “We understand the lockdown news will leave you unsettled and worried but sadly we will be closing from November 2 to December 3.” The news has brought hundreds of comments on Butlin’s Minehead Facebook page expressing disappointment but sending good wishes to the staff.
Local hotels were this week seeking clarification on whether they had to completely close during the lockdown or could remain open for guests who had to travel for work purposes.
Minehead hoteliers Alex and Naomi de Mendoza told the Free Press: “The guidance is confusing because hotels have not specifically been told to close.
“For instance, yesterday (Thursday) we were told that guests had to be served breakfast in their rooms. They then had to follow national restrictions and return home.
“We are assuming that the remainder of their stay will have to be refunded, although this hasn’t been clarified."
Mrs de Mendoza added: “All November bookings have had to be refunded and bookings for the Christmas period are few and far between, especially as Dunster by Candlelight is off the calendar and so much uncertainty remains in the air.
“Guests who would normally stay for a few days over Christmas to visit family are reluctant to commit, as they don’t know if they will be allowed to travel or how many households will be permitted to mix.”
For the full story see this week’s West Somerset free Press.