Folks,

It goes without saying that these are unprecedented times; the coronavirus pandemic has affected every one of us. Those in the hospitality sector are having to deal with a near-total shutdown, with no end in sight; and let’s not forget that includes the breweries and cider makers as well as pubs, clubs, bars and restaurants.

CAMRA has launched a campaign titled Pulling Together; the aim is to highlight those pubs and breweries that have come up with innovations to help them cope. This could be providing takeaway food, selling gift cards for future use so there is at least some cashflow, and even crowdfunding. And searches on Whatpub.com now default to showing those which are offering takeaways or deliveries. However, this is dependent on the information being fed into the system – which is where you come in. If you know of a pub, club, bar or brewery in our area which should be listed, please get in touch so we can update the database.

Visiting the pub is, by its very nature, a social thing; the current lockdown is pretty much the exact opposite. We can still stay in touch via our Facebook group, Solihull & District CAMRA – or feel free to email us at any time.

Looking on the positive side, one effect of the current crisis is that it’s brought community spirit to the fore – which means there are resources out there should you be self-isolating and need some help with shopping, collecting prescriptions or deliveries. For example, search Facebook for ‘B93 Coronavirus’ and you’ll find a group offering help and support across Knowle, Bentley Heath and Dorridge; there’s a similar group for central Solihull. In these days of electronic wizardry and social media, being isolated does not mean you have to be ‘alone’; I encourage you to reach out (metaphorically, of course) to seek help if needed, or conversely to volunteer if you are able. Here’s hoping the current situation really is temporary, and we can soon be out and about, and supporting our local pubs and clubs.

Hoping you all stay safe, healthy and sane – regards,

Martin Buck

Branch Chairman.