Mecca Bingo, one of the UK's biggest and most popular bingo brands, has responded exclusively to BingoDaily concerning the weekend's report of the Mecca Bingo Bolton breaching coronavirus rules.
Last week, the Mecca Bingo on Ormrod Street, Bolton was slammed by local officials after the bingo hall allegedly advertised opening its bar for players. This would've been a clear breach of the strict coronavirus measures put in place.
Bolton itself has recently become a coronavirus hotspot, with national newspapers reporting on the soaring number of coronavirus cases in the Lancashire town with a population of around 150,000.
Police officers were called to the premises as well as the licensing team from the local authorities.
Mecca Bingo Clarify Breach Claims
BingoDaily reached out to Mecca Bingo for comment on the matter and here's what they replied:
“We received guidance from our sponsor department in government, DCMS, that, on account of the specific licensing regulations of bingo venues, we were able to continue to offer food and drinks to our customers, and we therefore did so in good faith. However the local council’s interpretation of bingo club licensing differs and we fully respect their decision, which we have complied to and have ceased our food and drink offering with immediate effect.
“We firmly reject any suggestion that we have acted irresponsibly, and would reiterate that the safety of our colleagues and customers remains our number one concern and we are very much looking forward to continuing to provide a great and ultra-safe bingo experience for our loyal and understanding customers at Mecca Bolton.”
After a near five-month lockdown, bingo halls reopened with strict measures put in place. However, despite the measures, there has been at least an outbreak of the pandemic linked to a bingo event.
A Staffordshire bingo event was recently held responsible for an outbreak of coronavirus which affected dozens of attendees.
Ben has been an massive bingo enthusiast and fan since playing at the seaside as a kid. Dedicated to bringing you the latest and best bingo news from the UK