A RAFT of pubs and restaurants across Christchurch took the decision to close early on Wednesday and are not due to reopen until Friday following “advice from Pub Watch and the local licensing authority”.

It is understood guidance was issued yesterday and was given in relation to a traveller community presence in the region ahead of a funeral taking place tomorrow.

Both BCP Council and Dorset Police said they did not give any advice for licensed premises to close across Bournemouth and Christchurch, however, the Daily Echo found many had taken the decision to do so.

It was confirmed that the following venues closed early yesterday and would not be open on Thursday:

  • The Rising Sun
  • The Smuggler's Run
  • Thomas Tripp
  • Ship Inn
  • BODEGA
  • The Railway
  • Cat and Fiddle
  • Toby Carvery (Hinton and Cooper Dean sites)
  • Stourvale

A spokesperson for Mitchells & Butlers said: “The Toby Carvery Hinton (Christchurch) and Toby Carvery Cooper Dean will be both be closed tomorrow. This is on the advice of Pub Watch and the local licensing authority.”

It is understood other venues were still considering their options before making a final decision.

A spokeswoman for Dorset Police said: “Dorset Police has not advised any licensed premises to close in the Bournemouth and Christchurch areas.”

BCP Council also said they had not advised any licensed premises to close as a result of the funeral.

A spokeswoman for BCP Council said: “We are aware of a funeral for the traveller community taking place today and usual bereavement services and arrangements are in place as they would for any other funeral.”