Welling’s We-Anchor-In-Hope pub has closed its doors before Christmas after “a number of the team” tested positive for Covid.

We-Anchor-in-Hope pub on Bellegrove Road in Welling, has shut after "several" members of staff were told to isolate by the NHS track and trace.

The pub will be closed on Christmas Day and will refund any deposits to customers who had booked in advance.

A spokesperson for We-Anchor-In-Hope said that they are “devastated” to be left with “no choice” but to close the pub.

The spokesperson said: “We’re devastated to be left with no choice but to close our pub for the next few days, including Christmas Day.

“A number of the team tested positive for Covid and were told to isolate by NHS track and trace teams.

“Each year we put a lot of effort into making Christmas Day special for our customers and after the disappointment of last Christmas we’d planned to make this year extra special.

The spokesperson said that there’s not enough staff to run the pub up to its “usual high standards”.

“While several of the team have not tested positive, there are not enough of them available to run the pub to its usual high standards.

“We’re so sorry to disappoint our loyal customers and where possible we’ve been trying to find space for people at other pubs nearby.

“If this is not possible, we’re refunding their deposits and will be doing all we can to make it up to them.”

A statement was released on the pub's social media page where they confirmed that the venue will remain closed until December 26.

The full statement said: “It is with deep sadness and regret that the pub will remain closed until and including December 26.

“All bookings will be contacted and either moved or refunded, we feel it’s paramount to inform our customers as soon as possible so you have time to make other arrangements.

“It’s a possibility we may be able to open on Boxing Day for drinks only, this is to be confirmed.

“Hope you all have a very merry Christmas.”

The property is owned by pub franchise, Greene King.

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