The British Beer and Pub Association has said that the latest restrictions in the North East is “another significant blow” to the sector.

Matt Hancock, the Heath Secretary, confirmed local lockdowns Northumberland, North Tyneside, South Tyneside, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, Gateshead, Sunderland and County Durham from Friday, the pub sector within the area prepares for another hit.

New rules will mean that leisure and entertainment venues must close between 10pm and 5am from Friday onwards.

“I know, the whole House knows, that these decisions have a real impact on families, on businesses and on local communities and I can tell everyone affected that we do not take these decisions lightly,” said Hancock.

“We agree with the local councils that we must follow the data and act and the data says that we must act now so that we can control the virus and keep people safe.

“And I know that the people of the North East will come together to beat this virus, as defeat it we must.”

The British Beer and Pub Association, which represents brewers and pubs, commented on the new rules and how they will impact the sector.

“Our sector has been one of the hardest and longest hit by the pandemic. Pubs and brewers have worked tirelessly to get pubs safely open and stocked since July so this latest announcement is another significant blow,” said Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association.

“Consumer confidence is already very fragile and extra restrictions will inevitably have a further cooling effect on that not only in the regions where they are in effect, but also nationally.”

“As an industry we recognise the need to continue to support the Government and local communities in managing the risk of rising infection rates. We take our responsibilities extremely seriously and our pubs will continue to adhere strictly to Government guidance ensuring that they remain a safe and welcoming place for socialising.”