'Eat Out to Sell Out': Chesterfield pubs and cafés promise to come back stronger as they shut up shop for lockdown

Hospitality businesses have been told they must close on Thursday, apart from providing takeaway services, amid dire warnings about the number of likely hospitalisations and deaths from a second wave of coronavirus.

Chesterfield venues say they are in no doubt about the devastating economic impact of lockdown, but hopes remain that they can return stronger.

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Claire Wood, owner of Stephenson’s Tea And Coffee House, said she was determined to remain optimistic and understood the decision had been made to protect people’s health and the NHS.

"We have taken the decision to close from Wednesday as our takeaway service largely supplies offices and people will be working from home,” she said.

"Obviously it is bad news for small businesses, but if this is what is required for every one of our customers to walk back through the doors fit and healthy then so be it.”

Stephenson’s has launched a, ‘Eat Out to Sell Out’ initiative to clear as much of its stock as possible – with 25 per cent off every purchase.

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Pubs in the area are also offering discounts ahead of Thursday.

A post on the Facebook page of the Barley Mow at Wingerworth said: “As of Thursday the Barley Mow will again have to close our doors.

“Up until then we are open and Monday to Wednesday will continue to offer 25 per cent off food and soft drinks.

“Help us to run out.”

Other hospitality venues in the town say they will be ready to go if the Government allows them to open ahead of Christmas.

Sharon Hilton, owner of the Vintage Tea Rooms, said she will be decorating her business over lockdown to make it look ‘amazing’.

"I’m hoping we can have special Christmas afternoon teas like we did for Halloween and really get into the spirit of Christmas,” she said.

Sharon says that the ‘overwhelming’ support of people in the town over the last month means the business at least has a financial buffer.

"We will be closing and not doing takeaways, and staff will go onto the furlough scheme,” she added.

"The Government support will be better under lockdown than under the tier restrictions.”

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Nancy Fielder, editor.