THE manager of Taunton's Toby Carvery has provided an update on the restaurant's future.

This week it was reported that Mitchell & Butlers - the owner of the restaurant brand - was planning to shut some sites following the Covid-19 lockdown.

READ MORE: Toby Carvery owners announce site closures

However, Chris Francis - manager of the Toby Carvery situated off the A358 at Ruishton - has told the County Gazette that his restaurant will not be one of those to close its doors for good.

Francis was appointed as manager in April 2020 and opened the business for the first time - after the first Covid-19 lockdown - on August 3.

The restaurant's Facebook page says: "We look forward to welcoming you back when we re-open, and we are still accepting bookings for December and Christmas."

Francis also confirmed that a series of safety measures would remain in place once the restaurant does re-open.

These include a one-way entrance and exit system, as well as hand sanitiser upon entry/exit and by the washroom facilities.

There will be reduced capacity throughout, and full table service - including in the bar area for drinks.

Guests are called up to the carvery when their table is next in line, in order to avoid queuing, and while refillable soft drinks are still available, these are ordered through the server.

There will be a dedicated host on each shift who will be seating guests and supporting with track and trace efforts.