Alistair Darby, CEO of Brains Brewery which owns The Duke of Wellington pub on the High Street, has spoken out against the new COVID-19 restrictions imposed on hospitality venues in Wales.

First Minister Mark Drakeford today announced that pubs and restaurants can open but are not allowed to serve alcohol and must shut at 6pm.

The First Minister said the rules will come into effect later this week in response to hospitality businesses saying they need time to react and prepare for the new rules.

"I recognise how hard hospitality venues have worked," said Mark Drakeford.

"I am very grateful for everything the sector has done and I know these new restrictions will be difficult."

These restrictions will be reviewed on 17 December and every three weeks afterwards.

Responding directly to Nub News, Mr Darby commented:

"[The announcement is] hugely disappointing and a tragedy for our 1,500 people who have worked tirelessly to ensure that our pubs are fully Covid secure."

The First Minister promised "the most generous package of financial support in the UK" which consists of £180 million available to Welsh hospitality businesses, on top of the financial support already offered.