Lenzie “Local Legends” deli Billington’s forced to close under latest covid rules

Billington’s has been told by East Dunbartonshire Council that under the latest covid restrictions, they cannot be considered as a cafe.

All restaurants are not allowed to operate under the new rules for the next two weeks.

The team at the deli, led by Mark and Sue Billington, posted their disappointment on their Facebook page.

They said: “So would seem, as our normal hours of operation extend to 8pm then we are not considered a café within the definition set out in the regulations.

“We are so disappointed and sorry to say that with immediate effect we can now longer offer sit in.

“We will continue to stay open to bring you takeaway and retail, until we can re commence on Monday 26th October. We will also still be offering our delivery service in G66.

“We have tried tirelessly to offer you a safe environment, and disappointed at this decision. Can we take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued support and kind comments.

“Stay safe and we look forward to welcoming you back soon.”

Team Billingtons@EDCouncil

Customer Andy Dickson tweeted his support for the deli and hit out at East Dunbartonshire Council

He posted: “@EDCouncil your decision to class @_Billingtons as a restaurant is wrong.

“It has resulted in the ONLY venue to meet indoors in Lenzie now being off limits.

“Use common sense and reverse this completely spurious subjective decision. Support folk in these difficult times.”

Billington’s was recently crowned winner of the Scottish convenience Stores UK “Local Legends” competition.

The local eaterie, described as an “East Dunbartonshire institution” scooped the top prize for going above and beyond for the community during the national lockdown.

They helped vulnerable members of the community during the Covid-19 pandemic.

As well as delivering food packages, the shop also diversified and extended the range of products it carried to better meet people’s needs.

The Herald has been in touch with East Dunbartonshire Council and is awaiting its response.