A GALASHIELS pub has decided to close for most of the month in response to the latest coronavirus restrictions.

The Bridge Inn, on Island Street, reacted to First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s announcement that tough new measures will apply to pubs from 6pm tomorrow (Friday, October 9) until October 25.

Pubs, bars, restaurants and cafés will be able to open indoors between 6am-6pm for food and non-alcoholic drinks only, while alcoholic drinks can be served outdoors up until the current 10pm curfew.

Barman Gary Cunningham, who has worked at the Bridge Inn since June, confirmed the establishment will close its doors for the duration of the tighter restrictions.

“We'll be closing from Friday until October 26,” said Mr Cunningham. “There's no point opening to sell non-alcoholic drinks – it's just not profitable.

“It is very frustrating. The 10pm rule affected us too – we probably lost about £600 a week.

“We can’t have music and the jukebox makes a lot of money as well.”

The Bridge Inn has no outdoor seating, meaning it would be forced to shut at 6pm. This contributed to the decision to temporarily close.