Pubs and bars played a vital role in keeping members of the public safe as the terrorists in a white van ploughed into people on London Bridge and then went on to stab people in Borough Market – killing seven and injuring 48.
Many pubs and bars in the London Bridge area stayed shut for a second day as police cordons remained in place, but pubgoers have said they will soon make return visits.
Over the weekend, the Metropolitan Police warned the area would remain sealed off “well into Monday”, and thanked members of the public for their patience and co-operation.
Respect and gratitude for pub staff
Lloyd Shepherd wrote on Twitter that he had “respect and gratitude” for the staff at the Market Porter, which overlooks Borough Market, following the outrage on Saturday night.
“You were astonishing. Much love and will be back soon,” he said.
A spokesman for the Market Porter, which was still closed at the time the Morning Advertiser went to press, said it was proud of its incredible staff and the emergency services who kept its customers “safe and calm”.
Another customer, Joe Taylor, took to social media to say that he had enjoyed a drink at the Fuller’s-owned Barrowboy & Banker many times, and that he would continue to drink in the outlet, which is in one of his “favourite parts of London”.
The pub, which also remained closed due to the cordons, was asked by police to keep its customers inside the pub on London Bridge during the incident – before being asked to evacuate.
A company spokesman said on Monday: “The safety of our customers and team members is paramount and we are now focusing on the well-being of the team at The Barrowboy & Banker.”
Protecting customers
Staff at the Young’s-owned pub the Wheatsheaf came face to face with the terrorists after barricading themselves in the venue moments before the attackers were gunned down by police.
The pub group’s chief executive Patrick Dardis confirmed two members of staff were attacked as they sought to protect customers and colleagues – both taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Customer Frank Bath has shown his support for the pub, and said he “can’t wait” to get down to Borough Market and have a pint there.
The Southwark Tavern, neighbouring the Wheatsheaf, has had drinkers old and new support it, with John Hughman writing on Twitter that he will “100% be back” when the cordons are lifted.
Due to the incident being an ongoing investigation the Metropolitan Police said it “could not speculate” on how long the cordons will be in place.