MORE than 150 Herefordshire pubs could be forced to remain closed over the festive period under new Tier 2 restrictions, analysis suggests.

The closures will lead to more than 1,000 people not working as businesses are faced with vastly reduced turnovers, according to research by the British Beer and Pub Association.

The trade body warns of “carnage” across the industry in England unless the Government acts immediately to provide more help.

The BBPA estimates that two-thirds of pubs in Herefordshire will be forced to stay shut in December, some 156 venues in total.

This is because they serve no food or make a low percentage of their overall turnover from selling meals.

Under Tier 2 “High Alert” restrictions, which come into force on December 2, pubs and bars can only serve alcohol on the premises with a “substantial meal”.

The 66 percent closure rate is based on a survey of 32 of the BBPA’s members, which own 16,000 pubs between them.

The group also estimates that pubs in Tier 2 which are able to open will see a 58 percent drop in their December turnover compared to the same month last year, based on a separate survey of 446 businesses.

Together, this would lead to an estimated turnover of around £1.6 million in Herefordshire over the month, just 14 percent of usual takings.

Based on the reduced earnings, the BBPA estimates that 1,162 of 1,356 pub staff will not work over the month.

Boris Johnson has announced a one-off £1,000 "Christmas grant" to support pubs in Tier 2 and 3 that predominantly serve alcohol rather than food.

A Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy spokesman said: "We understand the pressure businesses are currently under, particularly the hospitality industry. These restrictions, which are reviewed every 14 days, are essential so we can control the virus, protect the NHS and save lives."

He added that the £1,000 grant for pubs accompanied a "wide-ranging package of financial support", including the extended furlough scheme, other business grants, loan schemes and business rates holidays.