ICEBreaker on 18/12/2005 at 14:26
RIOTS IN WAN CHAI
Pubs soldier on in the midst of chaos
South China Morning Post
Sunday, December 18, 2005
Norma Connolly
Last night's riots in Wan Chai brought the metal shutters down on most of the area's girlie bars, but many pubs in the area remained open so their loyal clientele could enjoy a beer and watch the clashes on television.
While protesters fought with riot police and tear gas exploded in nearby streets, customers of the Old China Hand had to make their way to the bar by taking the MTR to Admiralty, because exits at Wan Chai were closed, and then walking along Lockhart Road.
"People are watching it on television," manager Stuart Jackets said.
"We've got the doors open and the bar is full. We've been watching the riot police rushing past, watching people get tear gas in their eyes. Otherwise it's business as usual."
Noel Smyth, manager of Delaney's Irish pub, said police had advised the bar to board up its windows and not to let customers leave because of the dangerous conditions on the streets outside.
"The road's been closed off. When you look outside, there's about 250 riot police," he said. "It's business as usual inside, but as soon as you look outside, it's almost mayhem.
"It's like a lock-in, like a traditional Irish holy hour. If you know the secret knock on the window, you can come in."
The annual St Patrick's Society Christmas party was due to be held at the bar last night, but Mr Smyth advised the Irish party-goers to find somewhere else to hold their yuletide festivities.
Sangita Gurung, manager of Chinatown bar in Jaffe Street, said only 10 people were in the bar. "We've asked them to remain in the bar. So far though, we haven't seen any trouble," he said.
Outside Carnegie's, also much quieter than usual, customers were milling about in the street, watching to see if the riots moved in their direction.
