Cheers for first pints at UK’s biggest pub despite chilly temperatures

Customers cheered as the first drinks were served at the UK’s biggest pub on Monday after coronavirus restrictions were eased.

A handful of people braved the chilly seaside air in Ramsgate in pursuit of their first “proper” pint in months.

Pippa Ingram, 51, and Sue Bell, 55, were presented with the first drinks at the Royal Victoria Pavilion.

The huge Wetherspoon establishment, which in regular times can hold close to 800 people, is believed to be the biggest pub in the UK and was among the bars nationwide welcoming back customers.

As the pints were brought to their table, Ms Ingram celebrated getting a drink “from a proper pub!”

They each took a couple of long sips before clinking their glasses together, smiling.

Ms Ingram added: “Absolutely delicious. It’s not gonna last long at all! That is banging.”

The pair say they come to the Royal Victoria Pavilion about once a month for a catch-up on a shared day off.

Both have worked throughout the pandemic, with Ms Ingram working as a Covid-19 cleaner and Ms Bell working in Poundland.

They were soon presented with hot breakfasts and tucked in, wrapped up against the seaside breeze.

Manager Chris told the PA news agency that a lot of work went into preparing to open.

He told PA: “It’s great to see customers back in the pub after five months of being closed.

“A lot of people were calling up asking when we will be opening.”

By 9.30am about 30 people had settled in the outdoor seating area, with more expected as the day goes on.

Gary Gearing, 61, was another early customer at the Wetherspoon pub, sitting with Lee Cooper, 47.

Mr Cooper told PA that he had known what his first order would be for four months.

The pair, who both live in Ramsgate, said lockdown had been hard work for both of them.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “It’s great to welcome back our staff and customers.

“It is wonderful to see our pubs busy with happy customers and staff after a long time away.”