PUB and nightclub bosses have spoken of their relief that New Year's Eve celebrations can go ahead - but said revellers' safety was still their top priority.

After the latest data on the Omicron variant of the Covid virus was reviewed, the government announced that no further Covid restrictions will be introduced in England before the new year. It is the only place in the UK to allow celebrations to go ahead as normal.

Joseph Sewell, general manager at The Gloucester shared his happiness at the New Year’s go-ahead and said: "It was a big worry about what we’d do with restrictions.” But he added: “We are being cautious, trying to find the right balance between a successful night and people’s safety.”

He insisted staff will be wearing masks and hand sanitisers will still be available. Despite using extra measures, the pub received a cancellation from a band who were due to play on New Year's Eve. However, they have received no cancellations from partygoers and the pub's resident DJ will be keeping revellers entertained to ring in 2022.

The Closet, a nightclub in Weymouth, shared the same sentiments. Owner, Jamie Crage, said: “It’s very welcome news. I was a bit worried at one point that it wouldn’t happen so it’s a relief.”

Hospitality businesses have had to bear the brunt of lockdowns and Covid measures due to the restrictive nature of the rules, with many not able to stay afloat. Mr Crage added: “New Years Eve is a good way to keep things going through the winter.”

Organisers behind one of Weymouth's famed New Year's Eve celebrations pulled the plug on the event before the announcement was made that no new restrictions would be imposed in England.

The £5 per head Quayside Music Festival had been due to take place in a 'huge' marquee outside the Rendezvous on Weymouth Harbour, with bands on the line-up including The Undecided, The Leggomen and Chief Lazurus.

But organisers said: "We've made a very difficult decision and with a very heavy heart we've had to cancel this NYE Quayside Music Festival.

"We know many of you will be disappointed, as are we. We're sure you can appreciate the reasons why this decision has been taken, but don't worry, 2022 we will be back bigger and better than ever before."

While New Year's Eve celebrations will will carry on as usual in England, tougher new measures were introduced in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland from Boxing Day.

Scotland will limit the size of public events and nightclubs will close for three weeks. In addition, pubs, bars and other hospitality venues will return to table service only, with one-metre social distancing being advised.

Wales have limited indoor gathering to a maximum of six at hospitality venues and licensed premises must take additional measures to protect customers and staff, such as table service and face coverings, apart from when seated.

Northern Ireland will also close its nightclubs and dancing in hospitality venues will not be allowed. Furthermore, pubs and restaurants will be table service only and venues will return to a maximum of six people per group.