A COUNCILLOR says the city's pubs and restaurants are "quintessentially York" - and he will continue to call for more support for businesses affected by tougher coronavirus restrictions introduced yesterday.

Cllr Andrew Waller said he had already spoken to some of the city's pub landlords about the impact of government orders that they should close at 10pm.

He told a meeting: "10 o'clock closing will be a particular challenge to some of those pubs which are part of the character of York.

"The Ship Inn and Maltings are quintessentially what York is about.

"Some businesses have been holding their own. Others are in a more precarious situation, where the low capacity of customers that they are able to serve really does challenge their business plan.

"There are some sectors that need support.

"I'm determined that York's voice is heard in amongst the clamour for support for aviation and motor manufacture - that we are not forgotten."

Cllr Claire Douglas said: "Given the news over the past days of the increased infections and the expected further curbs on the hospitality industry, we must take the information in front of us and prepare for a tough economic winter.

"York is a resilient city but many of our smaller businesses will need increased support to make it through the year ahead."

"We simply can't take our eyes off this."