WILTSHIRE’S pub and restaurant owners are hoping August’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme will boost the coffers.

Diners will receive a 50 per cent discount, up to a maximum of £10 per head, on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the month of August under the programme.

The diner discount, which will only apply to participating business, was announced earlier in the month by the chancellor to boost spending on Britain’s ailing High Streets.

Sutton Benger’s La Flambe Restaurant says it has been overwhelmed with bookings since the announcement of the deal.

Chef Mark Clifford says bookings for the traditionally quieter August are up: "We are full on the first Tuesday and Wednesday evening already," he said.

"We have also had a better than expected July, after we opened up on the 4th," he added. "None of us really knew what to expect to be honest, but it has been ok. The tables are different, in that we used to have some big table parties, but mostly we are in twos and fours now."

He said he won't be opening up on Mondays to take full advantage of the scheme.

"It's still our only day off, so I'm keeping to that!"

Richard Board and his fiance Beth took over as landlords of Bremhill’s Dumb Post Inn late last year, and only had a few months in the driving seat before lockdown.

The Dumb Post is snuggled between Calne and Chippenham, and overlooks the Bowood estate.

“It has been busy, apart from lockdown,” said Richard.

“But we are expecting a very busy August with the ten pounds off deal. What we have done is to promote the ten pounds off deal in the pub and on our Facebook page. We are offering the same menu as we have been running which is more reduced than normal - but that doesn’t seem to be putting people off”

He says he has even made special arrangements to keep his locals happy.

“We allocate a few tables inside and out just for them so they can always get a drink as we are very popular with people on holiday and passers by.

"But I am looking forward to enjoying the rest of the summer and getting the best use of the terrace. We have incredible views from up here!”

Jason Kalen, the proprietor of The Marlborough Hotel on the town’s High Street is also welcoming the scheme.

“Yes we are doing the government deal! I can’t wait and I hope it gives us the extra footfall we need.”

More than a dozen independent eateries within a couple of miles radius of Marlborough town centre are taking part.

Twenty five eating establishments are listed within a five mile radius of Chippenham town centre, and about the same in Devizes.

You can use the scheme as many times as you like and you don't need a voucher.

You can use the scheme at the same time as other offers and discounts, with no minimum spend.

Here is the link to the post code checker: www.tax.service.gov.uk/eat-out-to-help-out/find-a-restaurant/