Two Dundee pubs have been forced to issue a statement in response to rumours Covid-19 cases had been linked to the premises.
Customers started to cancel bookings at The Nine Maidens in Laird Street as the “vicious” rumours spread throughout Dundee.
The rumours also surrounded another pub – The Downfield, known locally as Doc Stewarts, in Strathmartine Road.
Statements from both pubs make it clear the rumours are “completely false and unfounded”.
Nine Maidens manager Nicola McGinnis said: “We are unsure how it started. We heard about it at the end of last week but didn’t pay much attention to it because we knew they were false.
“Then quite a few people started cancelling tables and it was clear a lot of people were hearing the rumours.
“We released the statement to make it clear that none of our staff had tested positive for coronavirus.”
Ms McGinnis said the pub had been closely following all the appropriate Government guidelines.
Staff are temperature tested and wear masks, while the pub’s tables are well spaced out and hand gel available.
Doc Stewarts declined to comment.
The same message on both pubs’ Facebook pages stated: “The vicious rumours currently circulating that there have been confirmed Covid cases relating to our premises are completely false and unfounded.
“We are open for business as usual and the safety of our customers remains paramount. We are fully compliant with Covid regulations and social distancing.
“Thank you for your continued custom and support.”
Nine Maidens’ customers have also fiercely defended the pub’s reputation online.
One customer said: “Had a meal last week and wouldn’t hesitate to go again. All clearly marked, following all guidelines, great food and excellent table service from all the staff.”
Another added: “Too many idiots on Facebook trying to ruin people’s business.
“To be honest, even if it was a 100% risk of getting the Covid from the Maidens, I’d still risk it just for that macaroni and a steak.”
