First Lincolnshire pub to close due to COVID-19 staff symptoms Photo: The Elm Cottage The Elm Cottage pub in Gainsborough has closed less than a week after reopening, due to a staff member displaying symptoms of coronavirus. The Elm Cottage on Church Street, Gainsborough, reopened on July 4 with strict table service and limited numbers. The member of staff went for a test on Friday morning, after developing “mild” symptoms of the virus. With the results due back in the next 48-72 hours, the owners have decided to shut their doors until the result surfaces. It has become the first reported pub in the county to temporarily close again with COVID-19 symptoms.