A fed-up East Lothian restaurant is starting a £10 deposit scheme after 500 no shows in one month.
The Ship Inn, in Musselburgh had 549 no shows during August which they have described as “heartbreaking.”
To combat the situation they have introduced a £10 per person deposit system for any future bookings.
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If you need to cancel your booking you can do it by phoning up or online via your booking confirmation.
The popular restaurant wrote on their social media page:
“Unfortunately due to an extremely high number of no shows and late cancellations, we have been left with no alternative than to charge a £10pp deposit when booking.
“In the month of August we had 549 no shows and late cancellations. I’m sure you will agree this is heart-breaking for us.
“If you have a booking with us and cannot make it, please cancel and give someone else the chance to book in.
“You can cancel over the phone or via your booking confirmation.
“We hope you understand our situation and we look forward to welcoming you.”
Customers were sympathetic to the well loved local spot.
Liz Brown said: “Totally understandable. If customers are committed to visit then it shouldn’t be a problem.
“Obviously no one can account for illness but it's no different to pre-booking at the cinema.”
Scott Crearie said : “That’s ridiculous - especially after such a difficult period and you guys are trying to get back on your feet!”
While Shona King added: “Totally agree with you doing this.
“Just can’t understand people who don’t have the manners to call and cancel and think it’s acceptable to just not show up!”
The hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit by the covid-19 pandemic with restrictions leaving restaurants and pubs closed for months at a time in 2020.
