Pub uses Phoenix Nights stars to give coronavirus safety guidance

The OVERdraught has brought in help from the iconic comedy series’s actors Ted Robbins, who played a rival club owner, Den Perry, and Alex Lowe, who played clairvoyant, Clinton Baptiste.

In hilarious video messages to the Blackburn Street pub’s customers, the stars remind punters to wash their hands, respect social distancing and sign the track and trace register.

Ted also tells drinkers who don’t want to follow the rules they should go to the “rotten” Phoenix Club.

Jokingly he adds he may be forced to come down with his cigar ­— used to start a fire at the Phoenix Club in the series.

Actor Ted Robbins as Phoenix Nights character, Den Perry, in a Covid-19 safety message for customers at the OVERdraught pub in Radcliffe. Photo: Cameo

Meanwhile Alex jokes about a certain word he’s getting from the spirit world to describe non-compliant customers.

The tongue-in-cheek, post-watershed insult became his character’s catchphrase.

Alistair ‘Jono’ Johnson, the OVERdraught’s landlord, commissioned the actors to perform the videos for just $30 each, using the Cameo personalised message-sharing website.

The messages are played over the pub’s TV screens around every 30 minutes, in between music videos, and have gone down a storm with customers.

Actor Alex Lowe as Phoenix Nights character, Clinton Baptiste, in a Covid-19 safety message for customers at the OVERdraught pub in Radcliffe. Photo: Cameo

Mr Johnson, who is a huge Phoenix Nights fan, said: “It’s just a bit of fun while sharing a serious message, and hopefully it’s a bit more memorable for people than a sign on the wall.”

“Ted and Alex are both local guys and they weren’t charging too much,” he added.

“If Peter Kay was available I would have definitely tried to get him as well.”

Mr Johnson took over the premises in 2011 and renamed it the OVERdraught as it occupies the site of the town’s former NatWest bank.

The pub has since gone from strength to strength to become a popular spot for regulars and late night revellers keen for karaoke, music and a friendly atmosphere.

During lockdown the OVERdraught has undergone a colourful refurb.

OVERdraught pub in Blackburn Street, Radcliffe, following its refurb during lockdown

New murals of Greater Manchester music icons, such as The Stone Roses, painted by an artist from Salford, now grace the walls.

The bar’s stage area has also been revamped with an LED dance floor and new TVs.

Mr Jonson said: “It was something I had wanted to do for a while and lockdown gave us that opportunity.

“It’s only been a small refurb but it’s made a huge difference.”