A BAR chain has defended a post on a Worcester venue's social media after criticism of it being "irresponsible".

Readers highlighted the Slug and Lettuce's post which read: "We wanted to let you know that the latest government guidance doesn’t change how you visit us, you will not be required to show a Covid passport or lateral flow test result.

"We look forward to seeing you over the festive season."

But some readers claimed it was "irresponsible" given the advice from many scientists to take regular lateral flow tests, especially before visiting pubs and bars over the festive season, and the push to encourage people to get vaccinated.

One reader said: "Clearly not protecting their customers and by doing this they are contributing to the spread of an extremely transmissible virus.”

A spokesperson for Slug and Lettuce Worcester said: “We have continued to follow changing government guidelines throughout the pandemic and we have stringent Covid-secure measures in place to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our guests and staff.

"Our Facebook post, on December 15, was aimed to reassure guests that we are still open for them to visit and to remind them of the current government guidelines in place – they do not need to show proof of Covid-passports or negative lateral flow test in hospitality settings.

“It is down to every individual to mitigate the risk of transmission of Covid and we ask all our guests to take personal responsibility to ensure they are taking necessary and advised precautions when mixing with people.”