Two Southampton hospitality venues fined for Covid breaches

Indian restaurant, Kuti’s and the Jolly Roger pub in Southampton both face fines of £1000 for breaching Covid-19 safety laws. The fixed penalty notices were issued on the same night, 24 October after police in the area received a number of calls about the non-compliance in the venues. 

The Jolly Roger, a pub on Priory Road, Gosport was found to have allowed patrons to attend the premises in groups larger than six, dancing and not socially distancing and not wearing face masks when not seated.

While Hampshire Constabulary issued a £1000 fine to Kuti’s on Town Quay after it was found to have breached coronavirus restrictions when the restaurant owner hosted a wedding reception of more than 30 people.

The groom, a 39-year-old man, will also be served a £200 fine for breaching the rule of six.

PC Brian Swallow, force licensing team, Hampshire police said: “It is very disappointing that a licensed premises has been in breach of the clear guidelines around hospitality and group size that are designed to keep customers safe and limit the spread not only among patrons but the community as a whole.

“We understand that many people have missed out on socialising and celebrating this year, but this demonstrated a clear disregard for the requirements that are there to protect the whole community during this very difficult time, therefore serving these fixed penalty notices is necessary.

He added: “We hope this sends a message to other licensed premises who are considering allowing large groups in their premises while the health regulations are in place – you will be fined.”