Storm Goretti: West Midlands pubs to close early for staff safety but 'doors open' as safe place

Some pubs across the West Midlands look set to close early today (Thursday, January 8) with Storm Goretti forecast to bring heavy snow to the region this evening.

An Amber weather warning is in place for snow between 8pm tonight until 9am on Friday morning (January 9).

Significant travel disruption is expected this evening. Public transport operators like Network Rail and National Highways have issued warnings and advised against non-essential travel this evening.

One pub in the region has confirmed that it will close its doors early today to allow staff to get home safely. A statement on the the Fox at Shipley in Wolverhampton’s Facebook page, read: “Today 8th January we will be closing early due to snow warning. This is to allow our staff to get home safely before we get hit.

“Our last booking will be 5.30pm. If you are booked in we will contact you later this morning. Sorry for any inconvenience caused but safety is paramount. Let’s hope it goes as quickly as it arrives.”

The Cabin Public House in Sedgley, Dudley will remain open tonight and will offer a ‘safe place’ for anybody who may be vulnerable during tonight’s snow storm. A statement online read: “With the storm forecast for tomorrow, we wanted to let everyone know that we’ll be here for anyone who may need a warm, safe place — as long as you’re able to get to us safely.

“We’ll have the heating on - free mince pies will be available. Our doors will be open to anyone who might be feeling the cold, struggling with heating costs, or feeling alone during what can be a difficult time. We hope to offer a warm, welcoming space, a hot drink, and a friendly face when it’s needed most.Your safety always comes first.

“Please only come down if you can do so safely and sensibly, and don’t take any unnecessary risks in severe weather As we get later into the evening, service and opening times may change to ensure our staff can get home safely.”

The Railway Inn located in Shenstone, Lichfield will also be offering the same to people.

A statement on their Facebook page, read: “We just wanted to reach out & say this if anyone needs somewhere warm, then please come on down. If you can get to us safely. If anyone needs any assistance of any kind & we can help please call the pub phone 01543480503 Heating will be on Tea & biscuits on the house.”

Advice if you’re still visiting a pub tonight

• Call ahead to confirm they are open and their closing time.
• Check their social media pages or websites for real-time updates.

If your pub is also closing early today or offering a safe place for those who might be vulnerable with tonight’s weather, contact us and we will add this into the story.