To avoid any posssible confusion, I am posting about the Greyhound Pub in Church End, Hendon NW4 4JT and not Sydenham or anywhere else.
I've lived in the area for over twenty years, and there are a number of pubs where I'm a sort of regular.
The Greyhound is one of them.
There was a mass exodus under the last administration; a few people are coming back now that it's under new management.
For the last few months, I've been visiting the Greyhound about two or three afternoons a week. I've just completed my second loyalty card, and got a free beer, which is very likely my last.
The barmaid usually serving when I attend is a blonde girl in her twenties, who is always miserable. I don't think it's just me; I've never seen her smile at any other customer or other staff either.
I have particular dietary requirements, and I bring in a specially prepared roll, which she has seen me eating every time that I've been there, and never made any comment.
Today, after serving me a pint with about an inch of froth at the top, she came into the back room where I was sitting alone, and told me that she had just had a phone call from her boss (why did he pick that moment to call her?) and that I could not eat my own food as it was not bought in the pub.
So I did not eat. I may get an attack of dysphagia later when I do eat, but I can deal with that. I've got used to it.
I did, however, stay for another pint, as I had completed my loyalty card.
Significant?
This barmaid scurried off into the kitchen as I approached the bar, and I was served by a friendlier dark-haired girl who was better at pouring bitter without letting it froth all over the place.
There are other pubs.
Friendlier and cheaper, and who do not complain at me for bringing my own food. read more