A Riding Mill pub is offering thousands of pounds worth of free meals and drinks for locals who promise to spend as much quality time with their loved ones as possible this Christmas.

The Wellington Hotel, on Main Road, which is part of the Chef & Brewer collection of pubs, has announced the initiative after discovering that 74 per cent of Brits have put spending quality time with family at the top of this year’s Christmas list.

The pub’s research revealed that after a turbulent year, this Christmas, 30 per cent of people want to be able to make new memories with loved ones, while a further 31 per cent are longing for a trip to the pub or a meal out.

And, unsurprisingly, an overwhelming 88 per cent said that spending time with family will be more important to them this year than in previous years, and a further 67 per cent will be making more of an effort than usual to ensure that this Christmas is extra special.

Now, the Wellington Hotel is encouraging its locals to reconnect with loved ones and inspire them to carry out acts of kindness in the local community by giving away free meals and drinks to be enjoyed when restrictions ease.

All customers have to do to be in with a chance of winning one of 50 £50 gift cards, is promise to make the most of this Christmas by creating special moments and long-lasting memories with loved ones, whether it be in person or virtually.

“We know planning the perfect celebration has never been more important”, said David Hurt, general manager at the Wellington Hotel Chef & Brewer pub. “Not least because we haven’t been able to spend as much time with our family and friends as we’d like to this year.

“While Christmas 2020 is likely to be a bit different to other years, it’s a time to remember what’s really important to us – that’s why we’re encouraging people in Riding Mill to reconnect with loved ones and to look out for one another this Christmas, while enjoying a relaxing, cosy meal or a few quiet drinks in the pub, free of charge, when the time is right.

“It’s just one of our promises to you to help you lose yourself in the moment this Christmas.

“We look forward to welcoming friends and families alike back into the pub, to enjoy each other’s company and make new memories together – after this year, they more than deserve it!”

As an additional treat, Chef & Brewer will also be adding an extra £10 value to any £40 gift voucher bought between November 23-30 as part of its Black Friday deal.

To be in with a chance of winning one of 50 £50 gift cards, locals simply need to make a festive pledge at https://www.chefandbrewer.com/reclaiming-christmas/ by Sunday, December 6, or purchase a minimum £40 gift card in the Black Friday promotion to reclaim their Christmas.

Pubs, restaurants and cafes are all eagerly awaiting news of whether they’ll be able to open their doors again in time for the festive season, with a decision to be made on December 2.