DINERS tucked into 81,000 cut-price meals in the Crewe area under the 'Eat Out to Help Out' scheme.

Latest figures show the scale of the benefit to the 84 restaurants, cafes, pubs and coffee houses which took part in the government initiative within the Crewe and Nantwich parliamentary constituency area.

In all there was a total of £435,000 worth of discounts claimed during August with the average per meal being £5.76.

Government statistics include data up to August 27, which divide the nation according to their parliamentary constituencies.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak launched the scheme to provide a much-needed boost to eateries hit by a depressed market when they reopened for business in July.

Diners could claim 50 per cent discount on sit-down meals at a range of restaurants and cafes on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Some have chosen to continue with the initiative after it finished on August 31, although most are nationally-operated chains.

The government is also continuing to support the hospitality industry with a temporary discount on VAT, from 20 per cent to 5 per cent, until January 12 next year.

Data from OpenTable shows that nationally bookings increased by an average of 52 per cent during 'Eat Out to Help Out' compared to the same days in 2019.

In total, more than 100 million meals were claimed across the UK under the scheme and the Chancellor said: "From the get-go our mission has been to protect jobs and to do this we needed be creative, brave and try things that no government has ever done before.

"The figures continue to show Eat Out to Help Out has been a success. I want to thank everyone, from restaurant owners to waiters, chefs and diners, for embracing it and helping drive our economic recovery."

Among the restaurants, pubs and cafes in the Crewe area that are extending the spirit of the scheme is Giovannis on Nantwich Road where you can get 25 per cent discounts on meals on Mondays to Wednesdays through September, although booking is essential (ring 01270 500276).

At the Coach and Horses in Bradfield Green it will be 50 per cent off food (up to a maximum of £10 per person) on Mondays and Wednesdays through the month. (Book on 01270 522626).

The Hunters Lodge in Sydney is offering 25 per cent off all their bar food on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout September (ring 01270 539100).

Is your business still offering discounts in September? Let us now at Crewe Nub News by placing your details on our Local List.