Wetherspoons introduces 2 new pub rules after complaints

Wetherspoons had introduced two new rules in its pubs after complaints from punters.

Complaints from customers who claimed to be “driven nuts” by the noise have led to the pub chain to ban this antisocial behaviour.

It becomes the first pub chain to prohibit people from using loudspeakers.

This includes phone calls being taken as well as playing music out loud and video games.

Signs have been installed in all 792 venues telling customers to use headphones or put their phones on mute.

A spokesperson for Wetherspoons urged customers to turn their phones on to silent when having a meal or drink at one of their pubs.

They said: “Unlike most pubs and restaurants, Wetherspoon pubs have always had a policy of not having music (although 44 of our 792 pubs trade as ‘Lloyds’ and have music at certain times).

“An increasing problem in recent years relates to smartphones and iPads, which are used for videos or telephone conversations.

“Following complaints from customers, who are being driven nuts by other people’s videos and amplified phone conversations, Wetherspoon has asked customers to switch their phones to silent or to use earphones.”

Founder Sir Tim Martin said that it is important the establishments remain a calm environment for people.

He said: “In a world dominated by other people’s music and amplified sound, Wetherspoon pubs are an oasis of tranquillity and contemplation.

“In order to avoid customers being driven chicken jalfrezi by a cacophony of sound, we are kindly asking phone users to pipe down.”