Customs House to reopen bar and restaurant after four-month closure

The South Shields theatre has announced that it will be welcoming customers back to enjoy food and drinks at its riverside restaurant and bar next weekend.

Dame Bella’s Bar & Bistro at Mill Dam will kick off its official reopening on Saturday, August 8 with live music outdoors from 3pm until 7pm.

Socially-distanced tables will be available both inside and out, with table service in place.

The Customs House, which recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, is a registered charity and relies on the support of the public.

Throughout lockdown it has provided virtual entertainment for people to enjoy at home, including a live streamed Joe McElderry concert.

On Monday, July 20, the theatre’s executive director Ray Spencer MBE, confirmed that formal redundancy consultations had begun with staff.

The action is said to be a ‘last resort’ to ‘safeguard the future’ of the venue if current restrictions on trading continue past the end of the furlough scheme.

The theatre will remain closed at this time but the Customs House is encouraging people to continue to show their support by visiting its bar and restaurant when it reopens.

A message on the Customs House Facebook page said: “It’s been four months since we last opened our doors and the support you’ve shown us during this time has been incredible.

"The loyalty and love you’ve expressed for our little theatre with the big heart has kept us all going during this time and that’s why we wanted you to be the first to know that we will gently be reopening from Saturday, August 8.

“While we may not be able to open our theatre just yet, our fantastic restaurant and bar with beautiful riverside views and outdoor seating will be there for you to enjoy.

"We hope you’ll come down to support us.

“We’re so excited to be opening our doors and welcoming you back for our first afternoon of Bella’s Bar and pub grub, with outdoor music from some fantastic entertainers.

“Our charity really appreciates your support.

"Every penny helps to keep our heart beating at you Customs House.”

A message from the Editor:

With the coronavirus lockdown having a major impact on many of our advertisers - and consequently the revenue we receive - we are more reliant than ever on you taking out a digital subscription.

You can subscribe to this website and enjoy unlimited access to local news and information online and on our app.

With a digital subscription, you can read more than five articles, see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content.

Simply click ‘Subscribe’ in the menu. You can subscribe to the newspaper with 20% off here.

Thank you.