What's Happening?
A car crashed into the wall of the Old Kings Head pub in Kirton, near Boston, Lincolnshire, early on Christmas morning. The pub's landlord, Mark Nundy, described the incident as a 'whirlwind 48 hours'
but expressed relief that there were no injuries or fatalities. The crash occurred at around 05:30 GMT, and an 18-year-old man has been charged with drink driving. Despite the damage, the pub was able to open to customers as planned on Saturday after a building inspector confirmed the structure was safe. The crash caused a radiator to be dislodged, shutting down the heating system, but repairs were completed by 11:00. The pub, which only opened under Mr. Nundy in August, was not open on Christmas Day, which he described as 'lucky' given the circumstances.
Why It's Important?
The incident highlights the potential dangers of drink driving, especially during the holiday season when roads can be busier and more hazardous. The quick response by local authorities and the pub's management ensured that the situation was handled efficiently, minimizing disruption to the business and ensuring customer safety. This event underscores the importance of having contingency plans in place for unexpected incidents, particularly for small businesses that may not have the resources to easily absorb such shocks. The fact that the pub was able to reopen quickly also demonstrates resilience and the importance of community support in times of crisis.
What's Next?
The 18-year-old charged with drink driving will appear in court at a later date, which could lead to legal consequences and serve as a deterrent to others. The pub is awaiting further action from insurers to repair the damage, with considerations for the building's heritage. This process will likely involve appointing specialists to ensure that repairs are in keeping with the historical nature of the 430-year-old establishment. The incident may prompt local authorities to review road safety measures in the area to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
