Pub near Leighton Buzzard offers self-isolation units during coronavirus outbreak

A pub in Heath and Reach is offering en-suite isolation bedrooms for people who need to stay isolated but who can not do it where they normally live.

Sarah Smith, owner of the Dukes pub and restaurant in Heath and Reach, has announced a self-isolation support service as well as a package of helpful measure for residents during the current coronavirus outbreak.

Sarah, who is currently starring in Channel Four’s Four In A Bed reality game show, has, like most pub operators had to change the normal operations at the Dukes following government advice - although she is still open from 5pm till 10pm as she has guests staying at the B&B.

But, thanks to a small group of volunteer helpers, the pub restaurant is ready to offer support to the community.

That includes en-suite isolation bedrooms for people who need to stay isolated but who can not do it where they normally live.

A room at the Dukes with full ensuite and wi-fi facilities will cost just £45 per person per night, provided clients are prepared to stay for a minimum of three nights. Longer stays can be managed.

Sarah said: "If people stay, they will check in remotely and then I will provide breakfast, lunch and dinner for them, I will be cooking for my family so will also do meals for those are in the isolation rooms, the food will be left at the door.

"If they need new bedding or towels, again they will be left at the doors and they can change it.

"The idea is just to give people an option if they are unable to isolate at home."

The Dukes is offering delivered “heat and eat” meals to local people and can also provide heated meals via delivery volunteers by request. A menu is available on the pub’s Facebook page.A service to provide groceries and cleaning products, including pasta and toilet roll (while stocks last) at supermarket prices will also be provided, with products ordered before 9pm being available for collection or free delivery the next day.

Sarah added: "I will be ordering from my supplier and then people can get it from me, while I can still get the stock from my supplier, I will keep ordering for customers.

"While I can get the stock I will provide for my customers, but I don't know when that will stop.

"I am still opening for now from 5pm till 10pm because we have guests staying here, but I don't know if that will change, we don't know what will happen each day as it comes.

"It is just me so hopefully it works and I will continue to help the community for as long as I can."

You can see Sarah and The Dukes on Channel 4's Four In A Bed this week.For more information, call Sarah Smith at The Dukes 01525 237892.

> How has your business adapted to the coronavirus situation. Are you helping the community too? Email [email protected]