Chairman’s Update – 15th April 2021

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Dear All,

  • More Opening Arrangements
  • Further progress

Many thanks to the hundreds of you that have been in contact to book a table at the Railway Arms over the coming few weeks, we are truly humbled by the enthusiasm that has been pouring through over the past few weeks.

I’d just like to update you on arrangements for this weekend at the pub as I’m sure you’re aware there are still restrictions in place that we have to observe.

Firstly, as you know, we have outdoor seating only. Whilst the forecast is kind to us in terms of dry weather, it will probably be a bit chillier than is normally comfortable. Please wrap up warm in your thermals, bring blankets, if necessary, and we’d be happy to fill any hot water bottles that you bring along. Please enter the pub from the rear entrance on Station Street.

Secondly, please bring your face masks. Whilst these are not required to be worn whilst seated at tables, they still have to be worn when moving around the premises and popping to the toilet. On arrival you will be required to check in – preferably using your NHS track and trace app – but otherwise you will be asked to provide contact details. You will be asked to sanitise your hands and then a member of staff will help you to your table; unfortunately, you are not permitted to order drinks or food at the bar.

We have installed some clever software that will assist you in ordering food and drink using your mobile phone from your table. Simply scan the QR code at your table and you will be taken to our online menu where you can place your orders. Please do not worry if you’re a little nervous with technology, our staff volunteers will be around to help and take your orders in the old-fashioned way if you prefer. We would much prefer payment by card but can accommodate cash if that’s your preference.

In other developments I can report that the Ladies WC, main bar and upstairs living space have now been freshly re-plastered and work is moving towards completion on the inside of the pub building. We look forward to welcoming you inside as soon as legally possible. You will notice that scaffolding is being erected around the pub building which will allow us to make remedial repairs to the outside brickwork, chimney and pub roof. The Railway Arms will also have full wifi extensively installed across the whole pub and garden in the coming weeks and a website will be launched very shortly.

All staff over the weekend are unpaid volunteers and we request a little patience whilst we ‘find our feet’ with ordering systems and payment options. We are looking to recruit paid bar staff asap, if you would like to apply (or know somebody who like to apply), please contact our staff over the weekend or email us here

Friday marks another landmark day in this Community Pub project and the committee are excited to welcome you all over the coming weeks. Whilst Friday and Saturday evening are now fully booked we would very much like to welcome you along asap. Bookings can be made here at bookings@strap.org.uk

See you very soon

Steve