Newcastle landlord fears for pub's future after Covid lockdown

• Video report by Kris Jepson

A pub landlord from Newcastle has told ITV News Tyne Tees he regrets spending £45,000 of Covid safety measures during the first two lockdowns, only to see the third lockdown prevent him from even selling takeaway alcohol.

An industry body has predicted nationally around 12,000 pubs could go bust and landlord of City Tavern, David King, said any lengthy closure this winter means the prospect of his pub being forced to close down is "a risk we have to consider".

Installing a screen over the bars area, dividers spacing out tables and chairs and building a new outdoor cinema and beer garden cost him thousands.

David King was also forced to lay off nine staff members.

He added: "Closure is definitely a risk we have to consider. After the second lockdown we operated a market stall at the front door of the pub. During the current lockdown we’re not allowed to do that. There’s no alcohol allowed for takeaway now, so we’re closed completely now."

The new lockdown rules mean Mr King cannot currently sell alcohol from the premises anymore, even as takeaway booze.

Northumbria Police have also warned that any pub landlords who consider diversifying into deliveries will need to have the correct documentation and cover or they could face fines.

The British Beer and Pub Association is concerned about the impact of a third lockdown on the industry.