Pub beats lockdown rules by serving free bangers and mash to customers who order a drink

A BAR is beating Covid rules by dishing out free bangers, mash and beans to every punter who orders a drink.

The Office Sports Bar, in Aberdeen, has come up with a novel way around the temporary legislation that outlaws indoor drinking without a meal.

Owners hope the promotion will help it survive lockdown – and help those hit hard by the pandemic by providing free grub.

The venue had to throw out between £5,000 to £6,000 worth of stock after the national lockdown and another £1,000 worth was lost during Aberdeen’s local shutdown.

Bar supervisor, Rebecca Greig, said: “It has been really hard being an independently run business just now.

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“During Aberdeen’s local lockdown there was a lot of concern we wouldn’t be able to reopen.

“If there is another lockdown, and things don’t pick up with the business, then we’re not really sure we could reopen.

“Although this offer is to encourage people to come into the bar and drink, it is for people who can’t afford to eat out.

“It’s also getting much colder and not a lot of places in Aberdeen have outdoor heaters.”

The owners are currently putting in a lot of their own cash in an attempt to keep the business running but say this situation can’t go on forever.

Bar staff were also hit hard by the drop in custom as many were students on zero hours contracts, and unable to claim extra benefits.

How does the free meal offer work?

With a decrease in Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) funding this year, working shifts in the pub is vital to their income.

During quieter times only one member of staff was working each day – creating just seven shifts for the full team.

With the free meal promotion, staffing has already been increased back to two workers per shift and it is hoped custom will continue to rise.

As many people have lost their jobs during the pandemic and experienced a change in circumstance, the team don’t want anyone to feel ashamed of not being able to pay for something they once could.

The bar is also hoping to reach families who need some leisure time but couldn’t afford to go out for a meal.

Miss Greig added: “It is free and cheap. Our drink prices are on the lower end so it is affordable to come, sit inside and have a drink.”

The promotion offering free mash, sausage and beans to every customer is expected to run until temporary legislation banning indoor drinking without a meal is lifted.

The pet friendly bar is also handing out free doggy bags filled with treats for customers who bring their dog, an extra incentive to lure in more trade.