Doncaster pub-goers drank up to 116 pints per minute on Monday

Doncaster pubs got a much-needed spending boost on Monday, new figures suggest, as thirsty customers were allowed indoors for the first time this year.
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Trade bodies welcomed the further easing of coronavirus rules, but cautioned that the "fragile" hospitality sector is relying on all restrictions being removed before it can operate successfully.

Banking firm Revolut analysed the data of its 6,000 customers in Doncaster on Monday, comparing it to the average spend for a Monday in February last year before the pandemic began.

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Doncaster drinkers spent ​88 per cent more on average on Monday than normal, according to the data – knocking back around 116 pints per minute at their peak.

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The biggest spenders in the area were 55-64 year-old men, though Revolut said their customers tend to be slightly younger than the national average.

Doncaster customers also splurged slightly more per round than others across the country – spending £13.18 per transaction, compared to the average of £12.86 across Britain.

And one punter even spent a whopping £189.54 in just one purchase in a pub or restaurant.

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Bars and restaurants in England were allowed to serve food and drinks indoors from May 17, following the return of outdoor hospitality on April 12.

Spending in bars across Great Britain was still 6% down on normal levels – which could be because thousands of pubs are still closed and those open have significantly reduced capacity, the British Beer and Pub Association said.

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the BBPA, said: "After some questionable weather during the last week or so, we know Brits are looking forward to being back inside the pub once more.

“This is by no means the end of the crisis for our sector. We need pubs fully reopened without any restrictions at all on June 21 if they are to survive and trade viably.

“The countdown to freedom, and recovery, is on.”

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The figures also show the behaviour of Doncaster residents in restaurants and cafes on Monday.

Spending in dining establishments was 37 per cent lower than what would have been expected last year – compared to the average across Britain of 32 per cent below.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.