Positive coronavirus cases in staff members forced Poulton business closures, they confirm

Boca Cafe and Bar, The Tipsy Cow, Rumba Bar and Cinco's Mexican Restaurant on Breck Road announced closures yesterday, citing "a high rise of positive Covid-19 cases in the area."

But this afternoon, the four venues confirmed on social media that four members of staff had tested positive for coronavirus.

A fifth venue, The Alley cocktail bar, confirmed that one member of staff there had tested positive.

The Gazette contacted the businesses after yesterday's announcements to confirm whether any staff had tested positive, but did not receive a response.

A spokesman for The Alley said: "Wyre Council has started to see an increase in Covid-19 cases in the borough. Whilst numbers are still low, it is important that the community take action to stop the spread.

"As of yesterday, 8 September 2020 there were 16.2 cases per 100,000 in Wyre, up from 3.5 on 1 September. Since then, we have taken the decision to close The Alley following one member of our staff testing positive for Covid-19. The member of staff is well and is recovering at home.

"We contacted the council as soon we became aware of the situation, which has enabled a fast response.

"Please be assured that the safety of our staff and customers is our priority, and no member of staff has worked whilst showing symptoms.

"Since we reopened in July, we have followed all government guidance and we will continue to do so. We are working with the council to take all the necessary safety measures whilst we are closed. We look forward to welcoming you back as soon as it is safe to do so."

In a nearly-identical statement, a spokesman for Boca, The Tipsy Cow, Rumba and Cinco's added: "We have taken the decision to close Rumba, Boca, The Tipsy Cow and Cinco’s following confirmation that four of our staff have tested positive for Covid-19. None of the staff members affected showed any symptoms of the virus while in the workplace. All staff members are well and recovering at home."