A PUB has been forced to close saying it is suffering from Covid-19 issues.

The Bull Inn, in Fernhill Heath, near Worcester, has announced it will be closed until next Monday, December 20.

In a statement on its Facebook page the pub said: "Due to COVID and a shortage of staff, we regret to inform you that we will be closed until December 20.

"We have contacted as many people with bookings to rearrange, but with our best efforts, we are unable to get a response from everyone.

"For all those who have booked from now and up to the 20th please get in touch to discuss your booking.

"We will reopen on December 21 #sorry #covid."

The pub had organised a two hour Breakfast with Santa event on December 18 - but with the pub now closed on that date that has also had to be cancelled.

A breakfast event, which includes a full breakfast and seeing Santa and Elf, planned to take place on December 21 is still currently scheduled to go ahead.

Meanwhile the Centenary Lounge cafe bar has issued an appeal to customers after a "high level of cancellations".

Writing on its Facebook page the venue, in The Cross, Worcester, said: "It's no secret that the hospitality industry has taken a real hit during the pandemic.

"We are experiencing a high level of cancellations which we understand is inevitable in times of uncertainty. As a family, we completely empathise and know that the safety of yourselves and your families must take priority.

"We would still very much welcome your support and ask you to consider shopping online with us.

"To those customers who continue to visit we can assure you we are doing everything we possibly can to keep our customers and staff safe.

"We are graced with a spacious venue which allows us to space out tables, and our upstairs dining area offers a further spacious and private space to dine. Provided you are feeling well, we look forward to seeing you over the next few weeks."

The venue also reassured customers, if more restrictions come into force, full refunds would be given out to anyone who has booked New Year's Eve.