DINING out in the district is about to get much more tempting as the Government’s half price ‘Eat out to help out’ scheme is set to launch today (Monday).

For the rest of August, foodies will be treated to half price meals in pubs, cafes, and even fast food outlets in a bid to kick-start the hospitality sector following the coronavirus lock-down.

A maximum discount of £10 per person is up for grabs.

Eateries across the district have already signed up to the scheme.

Bargain-hunting diners do not need to do anything, just turn up – Monday to Wednesday – and food and non-alcoholic drink will be automatically discounted by 50 percent.

Sally Henley, Newton Abbot town development manager, said: ‘Newton Abbot is bristling with all types of cafes, bars and restaurants, catering for all manner of tastes.

‘The good news is that many of these eateries have registered to take part in the Chancellor’s August scheme designed to encourage us all to take a break from our own stoves and head on into town.

‘A late breakfast, light lunch, simple supper, or full-on sit down dinner all seem even more tempting when there is a discount at the bottom of the bill!

‘There has never been a more important time to support our town centre businesses whether they be national brands or independent and locally owned.

‘All establishments have Covid-19 safety measures in place, so that diners will feel safe. Safe too, in the knowledge that they are supporting efforts on the road to economic recovery and on the road to a satisfied belly!

‘I am looking forward to doing my bit and hope locals and visitors will be joining me.’

Cllr Alison Foden, mayor of Dawlish, said: ‘It’s a fantastic idea and is a way the Government has offered us all to help local traders and businesses in our towns and communities to recover from the crisis. I thank the traders of Dawlish for following Covid-19 secure practices to keep their customers and themselves safe.

‘The initiative is a brilliant opportunity this summer to try out the sumptuous menus that are on offer in local cafes and restaurants.

‘I shall be eating out as many times as I can this August to try out the delights of our Dawlish eateries!’

To find out which eateries are taking part in the scheme in your area, visit the Gov.uk website, and search for: ‘More information about the Eat Out to Help Out scheme.’