Carry on supping: Social clubs in tier 3 keep serving alcohol amid loophole confusion

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Social clubs — such as working men’s establishments and political party-affiliated bars — are continuing to serve booze under an apparent loophole in coronavirus restrictions, it has emerged. One, Darren Heggie, who runs the Havelock Inn in Blackburn, said he was astonished he could not legally have a drink in his own bar but could walk to the nearby Mill Hill Working Men’s Club “and get as drunk as I want”. Emma McClarkin, chief executive, said: “Given the circumstances they find themselves in, it is vital, more than ever, that pubs have a level-playing field with clear guidance.” A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care said: "We are asking everybody to play their part to reduce potential periods of exposure in an indoor environment. "For areas in very high local alert levels, any pub, bar or other business, including social or members clubs, cannot sell alcohol for consumption on the premises unless it is served alongside a substantial meal."