Two bars in Reading have hit out at the new Tier 2 restrictions and said they will remain closed this month.

The second lockdown ended today and hospitality have begun to re-open their premises, but some will remain closed for now due to the limits on drinking.

READ MORE: Reading placed in Covid tier 2: what you can and cannot do

Cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants can only serve alcohol with a substantial meal and this has led to several indie bars in Reading deciding to stay shut.

The Purple Turtle, which is at 9 Gun Street, said it is “very unlikely” it will open its doors until March or April 2021 “at the earliest”, while Milk said it will not open until sometime next year.

In a Facebook post, the owners said: “We unfortunately, due to the latest guidelines, are unable to reopen next week as you are aware the virus doesn’t infect the same in pubs with food and bars without food, it seems to do a U-turn in mid-air when it sees a plate of fish and chips, which is good to know, so all you have to do is just eat loads and we shouldn’t need to spend billions on a new vaccine.

“Apparently, fortnightly evaluations will be made for each region, so it is a case of watch this space.

“There is a growing concern from many within the industry, due to the five day Xmas party coming it is going to knock us for six again in Jan/Feb so, in honesty, it is very unlikely we will get to reopen the doors of the Turtle and the doors of many of our friends’ pubs, bars, and venues, until earliest March/April.”

The Purple Turtle said it is considering introducing a delivery service and has asked customers for feedback on that idea.

Milk, based at 8 Merchants Place, also posted on Facebook, saying: “Unsurprisingly, and as I’m sure everyone knows, we have been put into tier 2.

“This sadly means that it is very unlikely that we will be opening for the rest of the year (cheese and popcorn do not count as substantial meals apparently.)

“We all want to say a massive thank you for your support this year. It’s been a tough one for everyone and we are sad that we can’t help bring the festive cheer this time round.

“We can only hope for a review of the restrictions or a change in tier.

“We’ll be working on a 2021 menu over the Christmas period so that’ll be an exciting prospect to open with next year.

“In the meantime, we wish you all a Merry Christmas and a stonking new year. ”

Meanwhile, Caffeine & Cocktails have decided to re-open, with opening days and times of:

  • Friday 5pm -11pm
  • Saturday 12pm-11pm
  • Sunday 12pm-11pm

The owners said: “We can’t wait to open our doors again! We have received an overwhelming amount of support this last year, and to an independent business it means so much to us. See you all soon!”

Another Indie Reading bar, MNKY Lounge, which is on 30 Erleigh Road, has also re-opened.

The newcomer first opened in July, after delays due to the first lockdown.

READ MORE: East Reading bar and cafe MNKY Lounge finally opening after three-month coronavirus delay

Meanwhile, Up The Junction, on 231 London Road, will not  open up as a bar whilst Reading stays in tier 2 but will be opening its doors as a coffee bar as from tomorrow (Thursday, December 3).