The Eat Out to Help Out initiative officially comes to an end today – much to the dismay of many hungry diners.

Despite widespread calls for the successful initiative to be extended into September, No 10 seemingly batted off efforts as Chancellor Rishi Sunak thanked all those who took part.

The scheme, dubbed ‘Rishi’s dishes’, was launched in July in a bid to kickstart the hard-hit hospitality industry and gave diners half-price discounts of up to £10 per person, three days a week.

And the scheme has seemingly been a big success. Eat Out to Help Out has so far seen more than 64 million meals claimed since the start of August, with 84,000 restaurants, cafes and eateries taking part.

A number of chains and establishments said the initiative gave them such a cash boost that they have decided to continue it into September – despite government financial support being withdrawn.

UKHospitality and the Federation for Small Businesses are some of many organisations who believe the scheme should be extended, amid concern over a drop in footfall once it ends.

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