ANOTHER Basingstoke bar has fallen victim to new government restrictions for Covid-19 which force venues to shut at 10pm.

Plush Lounge Bar, in Wote Street, announced its decision to close on Facebook, saying: “We regret to announce that given the most recent update by the government we have decided to remain shut for the foreseeable. As soon as we are able to re-open our doors we assure you we will! So for now it’s goodbye, stay safe and we will see you soon.”

The venue is described on its Facebook page as a ‘dance club and nightclub’, but has been open offering table service.

The news comes after the Gazette revealed Fever and Boutique, in Winchester Street, has also decided to close, with bosses saying they were “devastated” by the new government restrictions, which state that bars, pubs and restaurants must have all customers out by 10pm, or risk a fine.

While the new rules have forced some to close, other venues are trying to curb the impact by encouraging customers to start their evening earlier.

Duck and Tipple, in Wote Street, has resumed its 'doorstep cocktails', offering customers the chance to buy cocktails between 4pm and 10pm to enjoy at home or inside the venue.

Its website states: "As things change with lockdown measures across the UK doorstep cocktails are fully functional again delivering between 4pm and 10pm Fridays and Saturdays."