A PUB boss has said ‘something needed to be done’ after the Government imposed a 10pm curfew on eating and drinking establishment nationally.

Gary Wood, of the Derby Inn in Barrow, responded after the new rule was unveiled alongside a host of others by Prime Minister Boris Johnson in an effort to curb the spread of coronavirus.

From this Thursday, all pubs and restaurants will be forced to close by 10pm. Ordering drinks at the bar will now also be outlawed.

And all staff and customers in retail and indoor hospitality venues will have to wear masks, except when seated at a table to eat or drink.

Mr Wood said: “Something needed to be done to flatten the curve.

“But I am not sure shutting every pub is going to help that. People will be out on the street when pubs shut and people will have house parties.”

He said the curfew would have a ‘detrimental effect’ on the business but that trade had picked up recently and the majority of pub-goers had respected safety measures in the Dalton Road pub.

“It’s been hard keeping on top of guidelines but we understand it’s what we have to to do," he said.

“There are select few people who don’t obey the rules when in the pub.”

Dave Stubbins, the chairman of Furness Campaign For Real Ale, said: “Safety is paramount. It’s difficult and it’s a very sad situation for pubs.

“We have not seen pubs close but they’re all finding it very difficult.

“Members have been very careful and restricting themselves to pub’s being quite, when there is room for social distancing.

“We want staff to be safe.”

The managing director of Cumbria Tourism, Gill Haigh, said: “The priority, of course, is keeping everyone safe. But with Boris Johnson warning that the latest restrictions could last another six months – alongside the imminent end of the furlough scheme - there are real concerns about the long-term negative impact for businesses as they head into the traditionally quieter winter months. We continue to urge the Government to listen to our calls for financial intervention to support the industry.

“Tourism businesses have already worked incredibly hard over the last couple of months to adapt, innovate and ensure they can provide Covid-safe environments, by taking a wide range of precautions to not only protect staff and customers, but also to provide a strong visitor experience.

“It is now clear that the tourism industry will continue to be impacted for many months to come.”