PUBS in the Cotswolds have responded to Boris Johnson’s advice to the public to avoid them.

The Prime Minister’s guidance has left many businesses concerned about their future as, because he has not forced them to close but instead just told people not to go, the pubs will lose money but can’t claim insurance.

Here’s what some local pub staff said:

Stephen, spokesman for The Sherborne Arms, Northleach:

“We are not in a financial position to close and the government’s promises to help are currently not in place and will be too little too late. So, for us its business as normal, we are still accepting cash and card payments and taking precautions of periodic wiping of door handles etc, increased hand washing etc.”

Lindsay, owner of The Daneway, Sapperton:

“It’s a scary time ahead, we only took over The Daneway last week and had to spend a small fortune in repairs and decorating. We have a large garden so plenty space between tables and fresh air and we have stepped up our hygiene and engaged a specialist chemical company to help us to do our best for customers. We may introduce a self check area outside with a laser thermometer for guests. We’re concerned about the long term impact on all of us and hope we can all be safe.”

Dominique, spokesman for The Fox Inn, Broadwell:

We are worried as the advice was for people to stay away from pubs and we have already started to see the impact in the past 24 hours, in light of this we will be offering a take-away service for prepared food and groceries. We are determined to keep going the best we can.