A BASINGSTOKE pub has been hit by yet another challenge after some of its staff have come in close contact with people who have Covid. 

King of Wessex on Winchester Road reopened in April after months of lockdown, but it has now encountered a new hurdle.

The landlord said that some staff are self-isolating but stressed that no employees have tested positive for the virus. 

The pub remains open today and is expected to be packed out tonight for England's clash with Germany for the Euro 2020. 

Craig Flockton, the landlord, told the Gazette that Environment Health Officers (EHO) have visited the pub today and “they are extremely happy with the protocols”.

“We have been visited by EHO. They are extremely happy with the protocols and how we are following the government guidelines.

“All staff who have come in contact are isolating, and none of them are positive.”

However, Mr Flockton refused to comment on how many of his employees are currently self-isolating.

According to a source, a number of customers who visited the pub and at least a staff have tested positive for coronavirus in the past week.

Mr Flockton would not confirm this. 

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has been contacted for a comment.

It comes as health bosses have asked football fans to keep following social distancing guidelines ahead of the England v Germany match, amid concern at the growing number of cases among people watching the Euros together at both pubs and homes.