DINERS in Argyll and Bute throughout the month of August contributed towards 85,000 discounted meals as part of the UK Government’s Eat Out to Help Out initiative.

The scheme, which offered up to £10 off per person at participating restaurants every Monday-Wednesday last month, came to an end on August 31, although some outlets have chosen to extend it by offering their own variations on the deal.

More than 140 restaurants signed up across Argyll and Bute - the 14th highest number among all of Scotland’s parliamentary constituencies. The total amount of discounts claimed stood at £571,000 - an average of £6.71 per meal - as of midnight on August 27.

Scottish secretary, Alister Jack, said: “The UK Government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme has been a roaring success, helping protect 1.8 million jobs in the hospitality sector.

READ MORE: Restaurant owners praise 'lifeline' Eat Out scheme as government offer ends

“More than 6.3 million meals were enjoyed in Scotland with the UK Government paying up to £10 towards each. I want to say thank you to everyone who has supported the scheme - as well as the staff who made it possible.

“This initiative is just one part of an extensive package of UK Government support for Scotland’s economy and jobs.

“That includes supporting more than 930,000 jobs, providing business loans, helping to get young people into jobs, and a VAT cut for tourism and hospitality businesses.

“We are also providing an additional £6.5 billion through the Barnett formula for the devolved administration at Holyrood.”

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