Lancashire's pubs gear up for winter - as the Christmas countdown begins
Bars, pubs and clubs across the region are getting creative to safely welcome customers during the festive season
Last updated 26th Oct 2021
Bars, pubs and clubs across Lancashire are preparing themselves for a busy festive season, despite Covid-19 cases continue to surge well above 40,000 each day.
Whilst uncertainty looms about what indoor dining might look like over the coming months, the government still insists it won't be implementing 'Plan B' by stepping up restrictions.
The region's hospitality industry took a big hit in 2020 after being forced to close for a short lockdown in November - before continuing to face tough restrictions under the controversial Tier system in December.
But with weeks to go until the big day venues are putting plans in place to be able to welcome customers safely.
The Ranken Arms in Hoddlesden, Darwen is creating a winter wonderland in it's beer garden to encourage people outside and enjoy the fresh air.
The pub is setting up festive stalls for local businesses in the style of a Christmas Market, including German beer, gift stalls and a Santa's Grotto.
Owner Nick Harrop is feeling optimistic as customers look to make up for lost time during the pandemic: "I don't think we would be open as a business if we didn't have the outdoor space. It's been a life saver.
"In the winter with our weather it becomes redundant so that's why we've decided to do Christmas Markets - in the hope people will want to experience the festive season we missed last year.
"Knowing that if we do have to shut inside, we've got 80 or so covers to sit outside, it's a great insurance policy for us. We need it - we need the space."
The owners are also hoping it will be a major boost for small independent businesses in the area who are being invited to set up shop in the Christmas Market stalls.
Nick says after 18 months of the pandemic local businesses are relying on the festive period: "A lot of the companies that are taking part of people who have been working from home and found a talent to make things. We'll also have a local farm shop and a gift shop from the town centre."