OF all the businesses hit by the coronavirus crisis, restaurants have to be up there as those impacted the most.

They were forced to shut in March and some haven’t recovered from the financial blow that they have taken.

But that hasn’t stopped many of them from stepping up to the plate and going the extra mile for their communities.

The Hexham Courant launched a campaign in April with the aim of celebrating businesses going above and beyond, identifying their special efforts by crowing them Trader of the Week.

This week, the bearers of the crown are the team at Gloria Restaurant in Prudhoe.

They were nominated by local resident Ian Warburton, who said: “They always go the extra mile and have done even more so during the pandemic.”

Like most restaurants, they were forced to close in March as the country was gripped by lockdown - but at the end of April, they reopened - much to the delight of residents.

The restaurant has been a mainstay of Front Street since 2017, and has received rave reviews from diners.

While its traditional Italian offerings of pasta and pizza were popular, the team also produced takeaway Sunday dinners over the course of lockdown, which also proved popular as people took the opportunity to let somebody else do the cooking.

Staff member Benoist Stefani said: “It’s been difficult. I’ve been working most of the time.

“Working with a mask on is tough and people are looking at every move you do.

“You have to take care of them. Our first priority is to take care of our health and the customer’s health.

“It’s been hard getting people to stay at their tables, because everybody knows each other in Prudhoe.”

Business was booming for the restaurant during August thanks to the Government’s Eat Out to Help Out Scheme - but with new restrictions in place, things are a little quieter.

Benoit added: “It’s a bit weird, the situation right now. I hope things will get better.

“We have been busy - but because you’re only allowed out in one family or household, most of the tables are one or two people - but last week, when the new restrictions came in, was really quiet.”

The restaurant is continuing to offer a take out service - and their hard work has earned them praise from county councillor Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South.

Coun. Stewart said: “Gloria is a fantastic restaurant and a great trader on Front Street.

“It provides amazing food, service, and value in the heart of Prudhoe.

“Gloria is another reason that people want to come to the town, and another reason for residents to be proud of Prudhoe.”