No karaoke nights or dancing at pubs under strict new coronavirus rules

PUB landlords have been told they won't be allowed to hold karaoke nights or let customers dance under strict new rules to stop the transmission of coronavirus.

It's the end of embarrassing renditions of hit songs for a while as pubs re-adjust to the "new normal" and owners have to prevent patrons taking part in "communal dancing" and live performances.

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The new guidance is tailored towards keeping Brits in line and socially distanced as they head back to pubs on July 4.

The Prime Minister announced yesterday the reopening of most of the hospitality sector from July 4, but the days of dragging friends onto the dance floor and yelling to be heard of loud music are over for a while.

The guidance tells pub owners to "take steps to prevent other close contact activities, such as communal dancing."

It adds: "All venues should ensure that steps are taken to avoid people
needing to unduly raise their voices to each other.

"This includes, but is not limited to, refraining from playing music or
broadcasts that may encourage shouting, including if played at
a volume that makes normal conversation difficult."

Temptations including live entertainment, loud music and sports broadcasts will all be banned in British pubs to keep people on their best behaviour.

The Government warned businesses to stop people taking part in group singing or chanting as well because it carries an increased risk of spreading coronavirus.

Dance floors will also be repurposed into table areas and patrons will need to be sat down if they want to be indoors.

Another favourite pastime is also on the chopping block - the pub quiz will have to stay virtual at least for the moment.

This is because of concerns it could lead to yelling and spread the virus.

But in a hopeful sign for entertainment in pubs when conversation runs dry, the guidance said it will continue to develop based on scientific evidence "to enable these activities as soon as possible."