A COUNTRY pub is pleased to be returning to a form of normality despite the coronavirus pandemic still wreaking havoc around the world.

Government guidelines, which were enforced following the initial Covid-19 outbreak in March, meant pubs and restaurants were forced to shut their doors in a bid to slow the spread of the deadly virus.

Among those unable to welcome punters was the Hawk, a unique country pub, bar and restaurant that is a favourite with the locals in Battlesbridge.

Although there has been another rise in the amount of coronavirus infections in recent weeks, punters are still heading to their favourite boozer.

Mirek Galuszka, deputy manager of the Hawk, is pleased to see customers returning in socially distanced numbers.

He said: “We couldn’t wait to bring guests back into the building.

Echo:

Alcohol in abundance - the Hawk wine cage is well stocked as customers return through the doors

“It was unusual having three months off because the summer months are usually the busiest time of the year.

“The punters are pleased to be back and it’s nice to hear people appreciating what we are doing.

“We try to do our best to give everyone the best service.”

While businesses up and down the country have gone bust as a result of the coronavirus pandemic limiting income, Mr Galuszka insists he did not fear for the future of the Hawk.

He added: “Despite the Covid-19 crisis, we have been alright.

“We were really busy before lockdown forced our closure.

“Although we were quite sceptical of whether customers would come back because many of them are elderly, they only stayed away for the first week or two.

“Many of our regular guests are already back and it is fantastic to see.”

Echo:

Fighting through the pandemic - Mirek Galuszka did not fear for the Hawk’s future despite the coronavirus outbreak

The Hawk offers a range of drinks along with three-course meals and a Sunday roast.

Widely regarded as a premium venue, the Hawk brings together elements of rural charm and stylish modern flair.

It also has its own beer garden, which is particularly ideal at the moment due to the social distancing measures.

Mr Galuszka revealed the Hawk has made a number of changes to its usual ways due to the pandemic.

He admitted: “The safety of our staff and guests is the priority.

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“We have signs throughout the Hawk to remind guests of the social distancing guidelines, tables are two metres apart and we only offer table service.

“All members of staff are wearing masks as well.

“We have done quite a lot of work to make everyone safe and happy in these testing times.”

Every week we will be unveiling our Pub of the Week as we look to champion your favourite local boozers across south Essex. To nominate your own pub or somewhere you enjoy visiting, simply complete our online form.