White Horse pub in Sudbury celebrate Camra accolade in recognition of efforts to maintain service during coronavirus pandemic

The owners of a pub in Sudbury say they have been left humbled after being commended for their efforts during the coronavirus pandemic.

Gary and Ashley Addison, who run the White Horse in North Street, were forced to close their business in March following a nationwide lockdown of pubs, restaurants, bars and theatres – measures which were imposed to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Keen to continue trading, the couple established a successful take-away service, serving a range of hot dishes and drinks.

In recognition of their support during the crisis, the couple have been presented with a certificate from the West Suffolk and Borders Campaign for Real Ale (Camra).

Reflecting on the accolade, Mrs Addison said: “We feel quite humbled and it’s really nice to know that we have made an impression on people.”

Having reopened the business earlier this month, the couple have enjoyed seeing some of their regulars return.

“It’s been lovely to see them all again and to be able to catch up,” said Mrs Addison, adding that she had made the effort of thanking everyone who had continued to support the business during the lockdown.

“It’s really nice to put a face to a name,” added the mother-of-two.

To satisfy the Government’s safety guidelines, the business has remodelled both its indoor and outdoor seating areas, enabling customers to stay a safe distance from one another.

“We have hand sanitisers and we are constantly cleaning the surfaces and chairs once people have left,” said Mrs Addison, adding that, while all the team have returned from being furloughed, additional staff have had to be taken on to help meet the stringent hygiene rules.

Hoping the safety measures have offered some reassurance to anxious customers, Mrs Addison said: “If they can see that we are making an effort, it will make them feel more comfortable.”

To protect customers and staff, the business is taking part in the NHS’ track-and-trace service, a scheme which informs people if they have been in contact with someone who is subsequently diagnosed with coronavirus.

“If they are in the establishment, then we want them to be safe,” said Mrs Addison, adding that other new initiatives, such as table service, had been well-received.