Appeal to Highland pub-goers to observe guidance and remain vigilant

PUB-goers in the Highlands are being urged to remain vigilant and observe all guidance.

The message came from Highland Council, NHS Highland and Police Scotland after Aberdeen's Covid-19 cluster led to a local lockdown in the city.

Councillor Allan Henderson, chairman of Highland Council's communities and place committee, said: “We have had good compliance in the Highlands with the coronavirus restrictions and we need everyone to continue this great work.

"This includes the public, who should enjoy the hospitality but must be responsible when it comes to the Covid precautions and follow any arrangements or rules businesses have in place.”

The council and police are continuing to carry out joint patrols to provide advice to businesses and check on the measures in place. Environmental health staff will follow up where concerns are raised of premises failing to implement effective Covid-19 controls.

Alan Yates, the council's environmental health manager, said: "It is vitally important that that licensed premises continue to follow the Scottish Government's Covid guidelines for the hospitality and tourism industry, including the advice on queue management and collecting customers’ contact details.

"We are working closely with businesses, Police Scotland and NHS Highland to ensure no complacency is setting in and the government’s guidance continues to be followed."

• NHS Highland director of public health urges public not to be complacent over coronavirus

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