THE Paddle Steamer in Largs has drawn up plans to ensure that its staff and customers are safe before it reopens.

The JD Wetherspoons owned pub in Gallowgate Street is already gearing up for re-opening when it receives the official go-ahead from the Scottish Government.

Social distancing measures will result in the employment of two full time staff per pub who will regularly clean surfaces and touch points throughout the pub.

The Largs bar has undertaken extensive employee consultation and has also consulted with many of its suppliers and contractors in a bid to be ready.

The Paddle Steamer will have screens at the till point, and there will be others to create seating areas and separate tables.

Wetherspoon will provide gloves, masks and protective eyewear for employees with hand sanitiser dispensers around the pub - including at the entrance - for customers and staff to use.

Every employee will need to complete and sign a daily health assessment questionnaire to confirm that they are fit to work. This will include having their temperature taken using a digital thermometer.

Dedicated staff will monitor the pub at all times in order to maintain social distancing standards and there will be a member of staff on the door at peak times.

The pub will use one entrance with a separate exit door where possible.

Customer entry and exit will be marked out by floor stickers and barriers with clear printed information providing guidance to customers as they enter.

The pub will have a member of staff working full time to sanitise all the contact points during opening hours including door handles, allergen information screens, card payment machines and hand rails.

Customers will be asked to use the Wetherspoon order and pay app, wherever possible, or pay at the bar using a credit/debit card and contactless, although cash will be accepted.

Staff will hand over all drinks holding the base of the glass and when ordered by the app they will be delivered to the table on a tray and placed on the table using the base of the glass.

Chris Harvey, pictured, manager at The Paddle Steamer, said: “At present the government have not confirmed any reopening date for pubs.

"However, it is important that we are prepared for any announcement.

"All staff will receive a full briefing and training on the new way of running the Paddle Steamer.

“We have spent a number of weeks consulting with staff who work in our pubs, as well as area managers in order to draw up our plans.

“The safety of staff and customers is paramount.”