A pub owner was called ‘sad’ and ‘boring’ for opening on Christmas day so he decided to respond to online trolls.
The owner of the Trent Navigation announced that they would open for a few hours on Christmas day so that their regular customers could still enjoy a pint, according to Nottinghamshire Live reports.
But many people slammed the owner for encouraging people to consume alcohol instead of being with their family and friends.
One person commented: “Why encourage this on Christmas Day? Let people encourage the family get-together instead of encouraging alcohol. Have to be bored and sad to open Xmas Day.”
The pub owner received negative remarks online so he decided to hit back and release a statement.
In a post on Facebook, bosses at the pub explained that their reason for opening for a few hours on Christmas day.
“Christmas, for most, is a joyous time of year – full of love, laughter and quality time spent with family and friends,” they said.
“But this is simply not the case for all, Christmas can also be a very lonely time for some,” they continued.
“Given the difficulty we’re all facing during this pandemic, there is a mental health crisis bubbling away under the surface and throw this in with loneliness at this time of year and it can be incredibly difficult for some, especially those without close family and friends to share the big day with.
“Pubs play an important role in the community and are a safe haven for many, a place where all walks of life can meet safely, socialize and let off steam and look out for one another – to be thought of simply as a place to ‘encourage alcohol’ is, quite frankly, a sad commentary.
“Our doors will always be open for friends old and new – and you if you are bored, then please do toddle on down! Its not ‘sad’ to do so, but if you are sad – its always good to talk.”
They concluded their post by saying an array of non-alcoholic, coffee, tea and soft drinks would also be available.
The post received positive remarks, with one writing: “Haven’t been to a pub on Christmas Day for years so we will be coming down and have a drink with friends and the staff who have been excellent throughout all the Covid restrictions.”
Another said: “What an absolutely amazing response, well said. Merry Christmas Trent Navigation, what a lovely community you have built.”
A third added: “Lovely gesture to be open for those who want to come down.”
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