Like pubs and bars across the country, The Queens Head is currently closed and faces an uncertain future.

The pub, which is based in Congleton, Park Lane, has joined the Save Pub Life scheme created by the Budweiser Brewing Group in which their regulars can buy gift cards to help them get through this difficult period.

Will Howard, who is one of the owners of The Queens Head after purchasing the public house last summer, told Congleton Nub News: "It's a generous offer from Budweiser, which has come at a good time for us.

"We've already had over £1,000 worth of vouchers come in, which is an amazing response from our loyal customers.

"We cannot thank the community enough, £10 or £20 here or there has made a massive difference and it's nice to know that there's still lots of support out there."

Regulars can buy an online gift card – from £10 – £100 – to use when it reopens and Budweiser will match that spend straight away so the pub gets double the amount, even though its closed.

Mr Howard stated that the implications of the coronavirus lockdown couldn't have come at a "worse time" for the business after the pub carried out a lot of refurbishment work over the winter, which included expanding the bar area in preparation for what hoped to be a fruitful summer.

However, Mr Howard, who is also one of the partners of The Lazy Trout based in Meerbrook near Leek, doesn't expect the pub to be back up and running anytime soon.

Mr Howard added: "Unfortunately I fear we might be out of action for a while. There will be trades going back to work first that are more important to the country's growth than ours. I am very proud to be part of the hospitality industry though and look forward to playing my part by rewarding everyone with our fine fayre once this is all over!"

Congleton's Rumba, White Lion and The Unicorn are also taking part in the scheme. If others want to take part, they are advised to sign up soon as there is an overall limit of £500,000 being matched by the famous beer company.

Pub goers can also nominate their favourite watering hole for the scheme on the Save Pub Life website.