The owner of the Midsomer Norton nightclub Fat Sams, which first opened its doors in June 2005, has reacted with resignation and frustration to the news that the last coronavirus lockdown restrictions are being maintained.

Under the news, announced by the Prime Minister on June 14, nightclubs will not be allowed to open up as hoped on June 21.

Instead big events and indoor venues like Big Sams, will be closed until July.

Owner Shaun Hughes reacted to the decision saying: " Like all nightclubs we are frustrated by the decision to delay, but it's probably the right thing to do in the current situation, however it is vital that when we are allowed to re-open it is permanent and there will be no future closures.

He added : " We are now revising our opening date to July 23, but realistically the lack of clarity from government is making it impossible to plan for re-opening, arranging stock and staff requires confirmed dates and there has been no indication yet of possible ongoing restrictions on capacity, track and trace, masks, temperature checks or even covid passports.

"Fortunately at Fat Sams we are very confident that we'll be around for years to come, but appreciate this is not the same for a large number of clubs that will find this additional delay without financial support could be the final straw. "

According to research published in the NME magazine, 1 in 4 nightclubs in the UK will not survive financially more than another month without further government support and 50 per cent no longer than two months.

The research, carried out by the Night Times Industries Association (NTIA), reported that over the UK 54 per cent of businesses have spent over £15,000 in preparation for reopening on June 21 already, while 17.8 percent have spent over £40,000.

Shaun Hughes, who is also a local councillor added: " Of course we are all disappointed this week but really excited about seeing all our staff and customers in July."

The latest coronavirus guidelines as announced on June 14 are:

You can visit indoor venues in a group of up to 6 people from different households or a larger group of any size from up to 2 households including support bubbles.

COVID-secure rules, including social distancing requirements, continue to apply in the workplace, and in businesses and public venues.

Businesses and venues which can reopen

To reduce social contact, some businesses, such as nightclubs, must remain closed or follow restrictions on how they provide goods and services.