A pub has installed an electric fence in front of the bar to stop people getting too close to the staff. The Star Inn in Cornwall took the drastic measure to protect people from coronavirus, which can be spread in close contact between people. It is intended for humans, and not on the off chance that livestock wander inside.
Landlord Johnny McFadden, who is also a farmer, said: ‘It’s there for social-distancing. ‘Before the fence, people were not following social-distancing and were doing as they pleased, but now people take heed to the guidance around social distancing.’
He told ITV that the fence is usually turned off – but he warned: ‘It can be turned on’. The broadcaster said several drinkers claimed to have been electrocuted by the fence after having one too many. Joel Carne-Mead, a barman at the pub in St Just, said: ‘We put it up as a bit of a novelty really, because the landlord loves his farming.
‘It’s a way of keeping people away from the bar. ‘It’s just a deterrent, but hopefully the sight of it will help keep people away. That’s how it works with cattle too, animals see it and often don’t want to test it. ‘Let’s hope it’s the same with our customers. ‘We’re open again now and we’ve had no issues so far, it’s nice to be back.’