Christmas party cancellations ‘near Omicron level’ as UK rail strikes loom – as it happened

Hospitality bosses say 30% of bookings have been called off, with rail workers' walkouts predicted to wipe 1.5bn from revenues

The Christmas season is crucial for hospitality firms - money made during the party season keeps some pubs and restaurants afloat during the quiet times in January.

Emma McClarkin, chief executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, says it's becoming increasingly difficult" to see how many businesses would make it through the quieter winter months until spring.

People aren't confident they'll be able to travel next week and so it's almost too late now to save the festive season from ruin for pubs.