PUBS and restaurants are bracing themselves for further restrictions as the Government warns of a possible national Covid crackdown.

Licensees in Winsford and Middlewich say customers have already been very compliant and supportive and proprietors are prepared to adhere to any new rules.

Will Goodwin, manager of the Brighton Belle in Winsford, said: "We already had test and trace in place and it's fine. Everyone seems to be adhering."

Northwich Guardian:

The Brighton Belle says it is doing really well attracting lots of diners

Trade in the pub restaurant has increased since the Government's Eat Out To Eat Out scheme offering half price discounts in August.

"We're doing really well," said Will. "We expected a massive drop off after the scheme finished in September but it's fine."

The pub beside Winsford railway station is offering several discounts including a buy one get one free on all breakfast items this month.

Customers can also apply online for a £10 voucher off meals costing £30.

The Narrowboat Inn in Middlewich has seen a steady rise in customers after introducing its own 25 per cent discount off food on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday throughout September and October.

Northwich Guardian:

The Narrowboat has introduced its own discount food scheme which is proving very popular

Licensee Sue Coulson said: "We're still getting people in for our homemade food. We have been doing track and trace since the beginning but with the new rules we can now refuse to serve anyone who doesn't comply.

"We could cope with a curfew because there aren't that many people out after 10pm."

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The Big Lock in Middlewich has continued to attract customers since the canalside pub re-opened after being closed for six months following a £480,000 refurbishment.

Track and trace was already in place but the biggest problem facing their business is the different rules being introduced across neighbouring areas.

Licensee Neil Sparkes said: "We've got pubs in four different areas, being run by four different councils all with different restrictions. That's the hardest part of the business.

"And because we closed down to refurbish this site we weren't eligible for a business grant event though we employ 22 staff and invested £480,000. We have been penalised for refurbishing a venue."