INDEPENDENT businesses across Worcester are calling on shoppers and diners to keep supporting them as the second lockdown begins.

From Thursday, the whole country will go into lockdown again for a month, with “non-essential” businesses and restaurants having to close unless they can operate on a takeaway or delivery basis.

However, pubs and restaurants across the city said they would continue to trade, by reverting to the takeaway model they used through the spring and summer.

Here are a few Worcester businesses offering their own takeaway and delivery services:

Creams Cafe in St Nicholas’ Street will be closed to eat-in customers, but is offering contact-free delivery and takeaway for food.

The Alma Tavern is continuing to offer takeaways for collection and delivery.

H.Dayus Butchers in St John’s is offering deliveries of packs of meat throughout the new lockdown.

Crumpets and Coffee Lounge in Angel Place is running a takeaway service with click and collect available.

The Firefly in Lowesmoor is running a sale on food and beer today (Wednesday) in preparation for the lockdown.

The Paul Pry is running its Sunday roast collection service, as it did during the first lockdown, with orders being placed via the pub’s Facebook page.

Balti Mahal in Astwood Road is also continuing to offer takeaway and delivery services.

The Worcester BID is calling on shoppers not to forget independents in the city, with many running a Christmas delivery and collection service.

Samantha McCarthy, from Worcester BID, said: “Our independent businesses are showing their steely determination to succeed by implementing innovative ways for us to shop, eat and drink.

“Our High Street needs these businesses - please shop independently to support them through this. If you are Worcestershire based sign up to the Visit Worcester newsletter for updates on local businesses, their offers and how you still shop local and support them.”

Shops running delivery and takeaway include Toys and Games of Worcester, Avant Garde, Simply Beautiful, Rock Follies and Embrace Boutique.

Tim Evans, who owns Toys and Games of Worcester, said: “This is a difficult time for small businesses, but it’s a difficult time for all of us.

"We’ll try and get through this new lockdown, keeping things as normal as possible.

“Whilst the shop remains closed we will be operating mail order, local deliveries and more importantly collections from the shop.

"We’ll be available full hours 9.30am-5.30pm Mon -Sat and 10.30-4.30 Sundays.

“If you need anything drop us a message, give us a call or visit our website. We’re happy to talk you through what we have and give you bespoke videos or pictures to suit your requirements.”

Worcester News’ Love Local Business campaign encourages people to spend their money locally this Christmas. Headline sponsors are Visit Worcester, Worcester City Council and Worcester BID.

Other supporting partners include Crowngate Shopping Centre and the University of Worcester.

To get involved, contact Dale Godliman on 01905 742372 or dale.godliman@localiq.co.uk.