West Dunbartonshire residents buy more than 60,000 Eat Out to Help Out meals

Figures released by HMRC show that £333,000 was deducted from bills at th 50 establishments in the area who took part.

West Dunbartonshire residents enjoyed 65,000 discounted meals under the UK Government’s Eat Out to Help Out campaign.

New figures released by HMRC showed that £333,000 was deducted from bills in the area up until August 27, with the average discount working out at £5.08 per person.

In total 50 establishments in the locality took part in the nationwide wide scheme, with a further 141 in Argyll and Bute - which includes Helensburgh - signing up, where a total of £571,000 was deducted from diners’ bills.

Across the UK more than 100 million meals were claimed using the programme, which was designed to give the hospitality sector a much needed boost after months of closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Scottish Secretary, Alister Jack said: “The UK Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme has been a roaring success.

“More than 6.3 million meals were enjoyed in Scotland with the UK Government paying up to £10 towards each. I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported the scheme - as well as the staff who made it possible.

“This initiative is just one part of an extensive package of UK Government support for Scotland’s economy and jobs. That includes supporting more than 930,000 jobs, providing business loans, helping to get young people into jobs, and a VAT cut for tourism and hospitality businesses.”

Whilst Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, added: “Our members have reported very strong bookings throughout August at a time when the sector really needed a boost.

“It has helped provide a lift in consumer confidence which is going to be key for hospitality businesses as they look to reopen and help rebuild the economy.

“The scheme has provided a timely boost in trade which will have helped many businesses safeguard jobs all around the UK.”