DINERS across the city were able to get their hands on half-price food for the first time yesterday as part of a government scheme to boost trade in pubs, restaurants and cafes.

'Eat Out to Help Out' entitles diners to receive up to fifty per cent off food and non-alcoholic drinks - up to a maximum of £10 per person - on Monday to Wednesdays throughout August.

More than a hundred independent and chain restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs in Worcester have so far signed up to the scheme which entitles diners to a 50 per cent discount on food and non-alcohol drinks up to a maximum of £10 per person.

The scheme looks to have gotten off to a good start, according to one city restaurant, which admitted yesterday was busier than usual.

Aasia Baig, owner of the Centenary Lounge in The Cross, said she thought the scheme had worked well on its first day and visitor numbers were up on usual Monday levels.

“We were actually quite busy for Monday and we did really well. I think that it has gone down positively. A lot more customers are thinking of trying new places and going to places they haven’t been before and I think it will be a good thing.

Mrs Baig said she was glad to have signed up for the scheme and hoped it was extended past August.

“September is generally a quiet month for hospitality,” she said. “Hopefully there will be a bit more encouragement for it to carry on into September.”

The 'eat out' scheme will run between Monday and Wednesday every week until the end of August.

Diners do not need to use vouchers to get discounts, the government discount can be used alongside other offers and discounts and there is no minimum spend.

However, discounts cannot be claimed on alcoholic drinks.

For a full list of restaurants participating in the government's 'Eat Out to Help Out' scheme throughout August visit worcesternews.co.uk.