SKIPTON’S Wetherspoon has drawn up plans to ensure that its staff and customers are safe as it readies itself for reopening.

The Devonshire will open when it has the official go-ahead from the government.

Social distancing measures will result in the employment of two full time staff per pub, slightly more for bigger pubs, who will regularly clean surfaces and touch points throughout the pubs.

Chris Donoghue, manager at The Devonshire, said: “At present the government has not confirmed any reopening date for pubs. However, it is important that we are prepared for any announcement.

“We have spent a number of weeks consulting with staff who work in our pubs, as well as area managers in order to draw up our plans. The safety of staff and customers is paramount.”

Wetherspoon has undertaken extensive employee consultation and has also consulted with many of its suppliers and contractors as well as referring to UK hospitality guidelines.

There will be screens at the till point and also screens to create seating areas where it is not possible to separate the tables to the social distancing requirement.

Masks and protective eyewear will also be provided. Employees can elect whether to wear them or not, subject to government guidelines.

There will be an average of 10 hand sanitiser dispensers around the pub including at the entrance for customers and staff to use.

Every employee will need to complete and sign a daily health assessment questionnaire to confirm that they are fit to work. This will include having their temperature taken using a digital thermometer.

Dedicated staff will monitor the pub at all times in order to maintain social distancing standards and there will be a member of staff on the door at peak times.

The pub will use one entrance with a separate exit door where possible.

Customer entry and exit will be marked out by floor stickers and/or barriers and there will be clear printed information providing guidance to customers as they enter the pub.

Customers will be asked to use the Wetherspoon order and pay app, wherever possible, or pay at the bar using a credit/debit card and contactless, although cash will be accepted.

When ordered by the app drinks will be delivered to the table .

Food will be delivered to the table by a member of floor staff.

The pub will also offer a slightly reduced menu and will provide condiment sachets rather than the usual bottles.

It will be open its usual opening hours.