Pontefract and Castleford pubs and cafes say they are unlikely to get full £9,000 Covid grant money

Scott Wilson owns the Liquorice Bush and Beastfair Vaults pubs in Pontefract.

He said: “The new one off grants are nowhere near enough to help hospitality, and other businesses affected.

“They need to be in line with the amount that the first set of grants. The latest stories are that we will be like this until May Bank Holiday, so much more help is needed.

“But again, hospitality is being hung out to dry. We’ve already lost a lot by being closed over Christmas and we are being made to practically beg for help.”

Dana Russell owns Queen’s Mill Tea Rooms in Castleford

She said: “Although we are grateful for support from the government, smaller businesses will not receive anywhere near £9,000.

“It’s difficult for us all. I really hope that everyone gets through this and customers have the confidence to come back as we need help to get back on our feet.”

Sam Carney owns the Travellers Inn in Stanley.

She said: “We have built our business up for 15 years and was very comfortable in the bank account however now we are seeing all our future disappear

“We have been closed since November and the grant is not enough. In the first lockdown they gave all businesses £10,000 and most of them stayed open.”