Pub landlord installs electric fence around his bar

The landlord of the Star Inn in the Cornish town of St Just has installed an unusual deterrent to enforce social distancing at his pub.

As reported by Cornwall Live, Star Inn landlord Johnny McFadden said that, perhaps unsurprisingly, the fence had been very effective.

“Before the fence, people were not following social distancing and were doing as they pleased, but now people take heed to the guidance around social distancing,” he told the publication, adding: “It’s for everybody’s benefit.”

Images of the ‘shocking’ new fixture began circulating on social media over the weekend, including one posted by Coast FM DJ Neill Maguire.

He told the BBC that there was a “fear factor, and it works”, adding: “People keep away from it, people are like sheep.”

While the fence has generated some much needed humour, McFadden told the BBC that his insurance broker was not amused.

“He rang a nephew of mine and said ‘I hope he is not electrocuting people’,” he said.

The news comes as England approaches the two-week mark since pubs were allowed to reopen. At least three pubs are known to have closed due cases of Covid-19. 

Pub goers are encouraged to book ahead of their visit. In order to conform with guidelines, pubs are advised to serve customers at tables, which should be spaced at least one-metre apart. Some pubs are using contactless ordering systems, while venues must collect and store customer details for 21 days in case of an outbreak.