A Midlands pub has announced it will refuse to serve alcoholic drinks to parents whose children are not properly supervised. The management of Mitchell's, located on High Street in Newcastle-under-Lyme, has issued a clear warning that while children are welcome, the venue is not a crèche.
Pub's Social Media Statement
In a post on social media, Mitchell's stated: 'Although we welcome children into our venue, we are not a crèche. I don't like having to do things like this but it needs to be said. Children MUST be supervised at all times.' The post continued: 'To anyone who brings their children in and automatically sits at the bar or a table and lets their children run riot, please don't be offended if you are refused service for an alcoholic drink.'
Impact on Other Customers
The pub explained that unsupervised children disrupt the experience for other patrons seeking a quiet drink. 'It is not fair to our customers who come in for a quiet drink, having to listen to it. They had enough of that before we were here. If you want the freedom of them running round, take them to a park!'
Additional Rules for Youngsters
Mitchell's also reminded customers of existing rules: no under-16s on the pool table, no under-18s on the dart board, and any under-18s found tampering with gambling machines will be asked to leave. The pub emphasized that this is a breach of licensing laws.
The management added: 'Personally, I have no issues with children as long as they are respectful and supervised. It is understandable if they are upset and are crying. As a parent myself, I've been there.'
