7:00am Wednesday 25th November 2009
By Harry Miller
Alcohol has been bar-red from a new pub for teetollers set to open in St George’s Walk next year.
Sandra Grant, 51, had the idea for the bar three years ago after she became fed up at the lack of variety for non-alcohol drinkers in Croydon’s bars.
The learning mentor for children with behavioural difficulties felt she was being treated like a child in pubs because she was not drinking alcohol.
She said: “The idea really came about from my experience. I gave up drinking 24 years ago and I found I was missing out. I was missing out on a sense of occasion.
“The lack of variety of soft drinks was another factor and the fact that I was paying double the amount my friends were for alcoholic drinks if I didn’t just want to have a small pineapple juice.”
After doing some research, speaking to friends, colleagues and council officials Mrs Grant got a mixed response to her idea.
Some thought it was great and could see the benefit of such an establishment in Croydon and others looked at her dumbfounded.
Mrs Grant said: “It was a bit like the film Cool Runnings where Jamaica fields a bob sled team.
“When I pitched my idea to some people that is the response I got, they just looked at me with very confused expressions.
“However some people I spoke to absolutely loved the idea.”
Councillor Sara Bashford is trying to help Mrs Grant with funding.
She said: “I think it is a fantastic idea and a great opportunity for people to get together in a social setting where alcohol doesn’t have to be a factor.
“For various reasons people do not drink, whether it is medical, religious or they just don’t like alcohol, this gives them a place to meet and socialise.
“I am very pleased to be involved in this, even if it is to help in just a small way.”
Mrs Grant is currently looking for ideas for the bars name.
If you can help with either name ideas or funding email sandragrant6@hotmail.com.
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