We've fought hard for 25 years to get away from eating s***e but now we could lose all that

Top Scots chef fears for future of restaurants and says the financial impact of social distancing could be irreversible for independent businesses

- ANNA BURNSIDE

Scotland’s hospitality industry, encouraging chefs to use local produce and cook seasonal food, he fears that coronavirus will turn back the clock.

Nick said: “The big chains, the Burger Kings and McDonald's, will do well. They are having a bumper time at the moment. It’s independent restaurants that are on the edge of a precipice.

“We have fought so hard in the last 25 years to get away from eating s***e and have great restaurants with great chefs. Scotland has a great larder, we eat stuff in season, we have restaurants with character and there’s every chance we will lose that.

“I’m painting a pretty bleak picture but I want people to know the dangers. It could happen really quickly and it might be irreversible.”

When he’s not been stressing about the business, Nick has enjoyed lockdown.