A PUB landlord has pleaded with pre-booked punters to be more considerate and thoughtful after 50 no-shows cost him hundreds of pounds.

David Brady, who runs The Alma, in Copford, has invested tens of thousands of pounds in his business since the start of the pandemic.

Most notably the watering hole has added an outdoor space which can accommodate 140 guests, meaning it has been allowed to reopen this month instead of next.

The village pub is now operating a booking system so staff and bosses can have a clearer picture of how busy it is likely to be before deciding to open or not.

Last week, however, Mr Brady says 50 pre-booked punters failed to show up without giving him any prior warning.

As a result, he was unable to offer the free slots to other people as by that point it was too late, meaning the pub lost out hundreds of pounds.

He said: "Customers have been making bookings and simply not showing up without letting us know so we can't re-book the table.

"We have 50 no-shows at the pub over the past week, costing a minimum of £250 but that could have been about a £1000 loss.

“After many pubs being closed for at least 253 days, the last thing anyone needs is even more loss of potential income."

Mr Brady previously blasted the Government for "doing its utmost to make pubs inhospitable".

"He has now pleaded with customers to be more mindful of the struggles still facing the hospitality industry.

“We are fortunate enough to have created outdoor space to seat 140 guests and had amazing support," added Mr Brady.

“However, there are many businesses in a far worse position than us.

“So, our message to anyone wanting to book a pub table, beauty pamper, gym session or trip to the zoo, please just let us know if you are unable to make it.

“This will give someone else the opportunity to take the slot and for us not to lose any more income.”