New measures which have been put in place by the Government have created a “bleak and dark winter”, according to those in the hospitality and nightlife industry.

Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Saturday declaring a second national lockdown in a bid to tackle Covid-19, non-essential shops, including retailers, pubs, bars, gift shops and more, will be forced to close doors from tomorrow.

And while a worrying four weeks lie ahead for many in the hospitality industry, traders are understanding of the challenges faced by all.

“With new measures comes inconvenience for everyone, but particularly as a business owner and in the hospitality industry,” Danielle Lee, owner of Whitehaven’s Club 135, said.

“ However, I do believe that we must do what’s right when it comes to protecting the vulnerable and keeping the R rate down.

“Since early September when we reopened, we had a working track and trace app system, which then worked alongside the NHS test and trace when that was rolled out.

“We also ensured we minimised movement around our venue by having a brand-new app downloaded which allowed guests to order and pay from their tables.”

She continued: “It’s not great and is a blow to the industry, but we must persevere – heads down and hope we can reopen come December 2.

“Above all for us, we must take care of and look after our staff.

“A dark winter is fast upon us and this one is inevitably going to be different and difficult, so I do hope we can all work together in order to have a little more freedom come Christmas time.”

While some businesses are able to continue trading, including those able to sell services and products online, those in hospitality have only one source of income – which involves now-forbidden face-to-face interaction.

Richard Mawson, who owns The Kellbank and The Lion and Lamb in Gosforth, said: “The extension to the furlough scheme is of course welcome news.

“At the minute we are actually better off shut rather than at 25 per cent capacity, given we have the continued financial support.

“[It’s] a bleak winter ahead, but time to get the R rate down.”

Both traders employ teams of staff within their companies, and hope that further winter financial support and packages are provided smoothly, as well as being tailored to the industries that need it the most.

It has been thought that about 500,000 jobs have already been lost in the industry due to the damaging effects of the pandemic.

Steven Alton, chief executive of the British Institute of Innkeeping, said: “As Government chooses devastating restrictions, with lack of supporting evidence in our sector, it must match them with comprehensive business support. Only an investment package now will prevent a permanent loss of our ability to play our part in the UK recovery.”