A POPULAR pub is hoping the latest government restrictions will not halt their progress after bouncing back from the initial lockdown period.

The Lamb and Lion, based on Westcliff’s Station Road, was forced to close due to the coronavirus outbreak in March.

While pubs and various businesses across the country have been allowed to reopen in recent months, Prime Minister Boris Johnson has confirmed pubs must now shut their doors by 10pm every night in a bid to combat against the rise in positive Covid-19 tests.

There are fears that the latest restrictions will result in pubs locking out punters for good due to going out of business.

But the Lamb and Lion was able to get through the first wave of the pandemic and James Lawrence feels the pub is like no other in south Essex.

James, of the Lamb and Lion, said: “We are a hidden gem in the heart of Westcliff.

“We are fully refurbished and open for business having been made to close due to the coronavirus initially.

“There are two floors, with the upstairs being a traditional pub and downstairs a vibrant music bar with full live stage facilities.

Echo:

Jewel in the crown - the Moonraker welcomes professional DJs and live bands but also hosts themed music nights

“We also have a state of the art sound system.”

On the bottom floor of the establishment is the Moonraker, which is fully independent from the pub.

The Moonraker - a music bar - boasts a dancefloor, stage and DJ booth.

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It stages a variety of musical events throughout the year, with professional DJs on hand along with live bands and themed music nights to entertain the locals.

The Westcliff boozer is also popular with those who enjoy getting involved in world-renowned pub sports.

James added: “We offer community teams for pool and darts.

“Local clubs are able to hire the space to host meet and greet events.

Echo:

Time to party - the Moonraker is located below the pub

“We also always look after our elderly regulars who have frequented the establishment for decades.

“It is a real staple of the local community.”

The Lamb and Lion is following all government guidelines, including no more than groups of six being allowed.

But James hopes the restrictions, including social distancing and the completion of Track and Trace forms, will not frighten off customers in the coming weeks and months.

He insisted: “The pub is one of a kind. There is nothing left locally like this.

“You need to see it to believe it.”

Every week we will be unveiling our Pub of the Week as we look to champion local pubs across south Essex. To nominate your own pub or somewhere you enjoy visiting, simply complete our online form now.