The owners of a popular Wishaw restaurant have said that last-minute no-shows are "gutting" for the business.
Derek and Fiona Mather own Artisan on Wishaw Main Street, a staple in the town since it opened more than a decade ago.
The restaurant officially reopened last month when North Lanarkshire moved down to level 2 restrictions.
But a huge number of no shows on their re-opening weekend meant they have been left with no alternative but to start charging a deposit when customers book a table.
Derek told Lanarkshire Live: "We were really excited to open last month after a very tough 15 months.
"During that time, we were only able to trade for 10 weeks in the middle of last year.
"We have been operating at a huge loss, costing us roughly £5000 every month.
"With the government providing £1600 each month and us having no income coming in at all, it has proved really challenging.
"A lot of people were booking via Facebook but not turning up. We had 14 no shows on Friday and 20 on Saturday.
"This is devastating for a small family business, especially after being closed for months.
"We have had to start charging tables a £10 non-refundable deposit, which seems to make people less likely to cancel."
Despite this, there have still been a few no shows and Derek has urged people to call in advance if they cannot make it along for their booking.
And as the country continues to ease restrictions, Derek is looking forward to returning to full capacity and bringing back the Artisan's famous whisky nights.
He added: "We are running small private whisky nights just now in our snug bar in the restaurant, for parties of up to six from two households.
"We just hope that, as more people get their vaccines and start getting back out, we can get back to whisky nights and other special events."
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