Thousands of West Lindsey diners used ‘eat out’ scheme

The scheme, which was designed to give struggling hospitality businesses a financial boost during the pandemic, saw foodies across the country dine out for a fraction of the usual cost.

The Government picked up 50 per cent of the bill (up to £10 per person) three days a week throughout August.

Figures released from Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs show that more than 106 million meals were claimed for across the UK, totalling over £611 million.

Diners in West Lindsey claimed 94,000 meals across 63 restaurants under the scheme.

This provided an average discount of £5.11 per meal.

The total amount claimed by West Lindsey businesses was £479,000. This resulted in restaurants claiming an average of £7,600.

Regionally, 3,925 restaurants in the East Midlands claimed for 6,515,000 meals. This equaled £36,434,000 in discount claimed.

Outlets claimed an average of £9,300 and diners saved an average £5.59 per meal.

The data only includes registered businesses with fewer than 25 outlets.

UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls said although the scheme was a “welcome boost” to businesses, more now needs to be done by the Government to help businesses through this national lockdown.