Popular Edinburgh pub The Black Cat's chalkboard asks people to think about plight of bar staff during coronavirus outbreak

A popular whisky bar in Edinburgh has created a chalkboard message in a bid to try and get people to think about the pressures hospitality staff are facing during the current coronavirus outbreak. 

Published 16th Mar 2020
Updated 9 th Aug 2023

Posting a picture of the board on Facebook, the team at Black Cat wrote: "If you would like to know how it feels to be in hospitality during this coronavirus pandemic? Remember when the Titanic was sinking and the band continued to play? Well, we're the band..."

The post has had thousands of likes and shares online, with people posting their support.

One user from Italy responded: "Be strong and protect yourself if you can... Even if it will difficult, We will get through this. Be positive as we in Italy are trying to do."

As the coronavirus outbreak gets steadily worse, many independent restaurants and bars are likely to struggle to remain open, with some already announcing temporary closures.

With the Prime Minister asking people to avoid socialising for the foreseeable future, the Scottish government are starting to try to offer financial support such as grants and business rate reductions, these are worrying times for hospitality staff.

If you are looking to try and help out your local favourites where you can, we have created an article here with suggestions.

Driven by a passion for all things drinks-related, Sean writes for The Scotsman extensively on the subject. He can also sometimes be found behind the bar at the world famous Potstill bar in Glasgow where he continues to enhance his whisky knowledge built up over 10 years advising customers from all over the world on the wonders of our national drink. Recently, his first book was published. Dubbed Gin Galore, it explores Scotland's best gins and the stories behind those that make them.
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