A Westcliff pub has launched its own clothing line in a bid to ensure the business does not go bust during the coronavirus pandemic.

The Cliff, on Hamlet Road, has been forced to shut its doors for prolonged periods of time due to the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.

Government restrictions have resulted in our favourite watering holes being unable to welcome its regular punters. The restrictions have led to some businesses going under.

However, the Cliff - which is the only LGBTQ+ venue remaining in Essex - is doing all it can to make sure it does not go down a similar path and has now launched Cliff Hanger Clothing.

Cliff manager Roy Wood hopes the new initiative will take off and is looking for some welcome income in these tough times.

He said: “With the pub being closed, the only way to keep the business alive is to try something else and hope it works out.

Closed - The Cliff has been unable to welcome punters due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic

Closed - The Cliff has been unable to welcome punters due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic

“We have released T-shirts, hoodies and jumpers as we have launched Cliff Hanger Clothing.

“I was looking for something to do during lockdown and I’d made the staff T-shirts myself in the past, so I decided it would be a good direction to take the business in.

“The clothing side of things has only just been started, so it’s a case of seeing how it goes.”

Cliff Hanger Clothing has been created as Roy, 31, looked to create another income stream.

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He added: “We really feared for the business going forward because of the implications that come with Covid.

“It’s been scary and we’ve seen a number of pubs close over the course of the last 11 months.

“We were so busy just before the first national lockdown.

“Our takings were improving so much but then coronavirus came and ruined that hard work for us.”

Unique designs - Cliff Hanger Clothing has launched a range of t-shirts, hoodies and jumpers Picture: GAZ DE VERE

Unique designs - Cliff Hanger Clothing has launched a range of t-shirts, hoodies and jumpers Picture: GAZ DE VERE

While a number of businesses up and down the country have criticised the way the government has dealt with the pandemic, Roy believes shutting pubs was the correct decision.

He admitted: “We are only a small pub and had to spend a lot of money to make sure we followed the guidelines when we could briefly reopen.

“It would have been easier for us to remain closed and a lot of people didn’t know what they could and couldn’t do.

“I don’t think pubs should open again until this pandemic has gone.

“That may mean waiting a lot longer, but everyone’s safety has to be the priority.”

To look at what Cliff Hanger Clothing has to offer, visit facebook.com/cliff.hanger.clothing.uk.

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