Nightclubs and pubs in England are expecting coachloads of Scottish and Welsh revellers to descend on the nation to celebrate New Year’s Eve.

Nicola Sturgeon and Mark Drakeford , the Scottish and Welsh First Ministers respectively, shut nightclubs and imposed social distancing following a surge in omicron.

Boris Johnson did not introduce similar restrictions in England after discussing the latest Covid data with Prof Chris Whitty, England’s Chief Medical Officer, and Sir Patrick Vallance, the Government’s Chief Scientific Adviser.

The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) expects “significant numbers” to travel from Scotland and Wales. Michael Kill, the trade body’s chief executive, added: “People on the borders may well cross into cities close to Wales. There will be people who cross because they have pre-booked tickets to bigger events.”

Scott Lawrie, the landlord of the Meadow House in Berwick-upon-Tweed, the first pub on the A1 after crossing the border, told The Scottish Sun: “We expect coaches from Scotland.”

Donald MacLeod, who owns nightspots in Glasgow, also said many would go to England for Hogmanay, but others would get round the First Minister’s laws by holding house parties.

Hospitality and indoor leisure premises in Scotland have reintroduced one-metre distancing. Licensed premises have also had to bring back table service. Nightclubs have been shut until January 11 unless they operate as late-night bars with table service and distancing.

Limits on attendance at events in Scotland, including football matches, were imposed on Boxing Day, and theatres have had to close. 

Ms Sturgeon has argued that record Covid cases showed the surge she predicted “materialising”.