A POPULAR hotel is doing its bit to save Christmas festivities in the wake of coronavirus by branching out and offering live magic performances.

The festive period is normally a busy time of the year at Marks Tey Hotel, with live entertainment dining events taking place throughout December.

Hundreds of partygoers were already booked to attend this year, one by one, each group had to be contacted to receive the disappointing news the hotel could not deliver its usual offering under the existing Government restrictions.

Refusing to give up on the festivities without a fight, staff have worked hard to arrange a different offering for 2020.

Michelle Scott, director of sales at Marks Tey Hotel, said: “With such difficult times upon us and constant hospitality restrictions changing we didn’t just want to sit back and surrender so have created a Christmas offering to give people, brave enough to venture out, something to look forward to.

“It became apparent that nowhere was offering any celebratory alternative so we thought, what could we do to save Christmas?

“That’s when we came up with the Magical Festive Events option after approaching local Magician Michael J Fitch.”

Harwich and Manningtree Standard:

Michael, who first performed at the hotel at the age of 17, is used to performing to huge crowds in London so his three date run at the hotel will be a real treat for Colchester residents.

In addition the hotel has also secured the services of comedian Graeme Matthews, a semi-finalist of Britain’s Got Talent in 2019, who will be delivering comedy magic on three nights in December, joined by a female singer.

Michelle said: “We all need some fun and laughter in our lives right now more than ever and with socially distanced tables and safety measures in place throughout, we are bringing the magic of Christmas to the Marks Tey Hotel in the form of our festive dinner shows.”

Guests can book directly with the hotel and the £37.50 price will get them a welcome drink on arrival, a three course festive meal and after dinner entertainment.

All tables will be socially distanced and as they expect the shows to create a lot of laughter they’ll be inviting everyone to wear face masks throughout the performances.

Michael is performing at the hotel on December 11, 12 and 19 and Graeme on December 4, 5 and 18.

To book call 01206 214809 or email christmas@marksteyhotel.co.uk.

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