Licensee needs to show respect to his customers

THE Hereward pub in Ely now has the distinction of being in the national press and on radio as the pub that stops old Ladies wearing hats on their premises. Surveillance and security in large pubs is to be expected, but surely the staff must be allowed to

THE Hereward pub in Ely now has the distinction of being in the national press and on radio as the pub that stops old Ladies wearing hats on their premises. Surveillance and security in large pubs is to be expected, but surely the staff must be allowed to exercise discretion.

I felt it was insulting of the licensee to suggest that "Mrs Wilbraham does not understand the world is changing". He cannot 'allow discrimination between youths and the elderly'. Of course he can. Exception would have to be made for Sikh's or patients with hair loss, etc.

I am particularly disappointed because I strongly supported the planning application to East Cambs District Council and, in fact, I have been banned by one landlord from his pub for the public support I gave the application.

However, the Hereward is a welcome amenity in Ely, but the management should accept that the pub enjoys a diverse mix of customers who should be treated with individual respect.

District councillor

Bill Pickess

via email