A historic Rutland pub is offering a special cook at home dinner for Valentine's Day.

The Blue Ball at Braunston is temporarily closed due to the government imposed lockdown, but owners Pip and Dominic Way and their chefs have devised a menu for the big day.

Pip said: "We all know that coming up with Valentine's Day ideas can be stressful at the best of times...add a pandemic into the mix and you've got a recipe for problems... But, as ever, The Blue Ball has the answer!

"Riding in on their white chargers are our Blue Ball Chefs, who've created two 3 Course Dinners to put love firmly on the menu. All you need to do is order, collect/take delivery, pop the oven on, light the candles and pour the wine! (Barry White optional )

"All meals are freshly prepared, fully cooked, chilled and ready to reheat when you wish. They'll be fine in your fridge for up to 48 hrs.

"Accompanying Wines are premium favourites from our wine list."

The pub is offering vegetarian and gluten free option, but not vegan this time.

Due to reduced staffing, ordering is only by the pub's landline or email.

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Pip added: "When we can't answer immediately, we'll call you back to confirm your order, arrange collection or delivery, and to take your card payment. So please make sure that you leave your clear order, name & phone number for us. Thank you in advance for your patience.

The 17th Century thatched pub and restaurant has been closed since New Year's Eve when the county of Rutland was moved into Tier 3, which meant all of its pubs had to close and could only offer take-aways.

Pip said on Facebook: "We cancelled our fully booked New Year's Eve 5 Course Feast, flogged off our fresh produce to villagers, cleaned down the kitchen and have put the pub to bed, for now...

"After a very challenging 9 months, we and our staff are taking a break. Please be patient with us responding to your messages.

"We'll remain closed throughout January and weigh up whether to develop a 'Dine At Home' offering from February, should the the current restrictions remain in place.

She added: "Thank you for your loyal support, adaptability, company and good humour throughout these difficult times. We hope that you had a happy - if different - Christmas and that 2021 will be kinder to us all.

"Take care of yourselves and your loved ones and we look forward to safely serving you once again soon."

The Blue Ball can be found here and here.

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• Do you have a pub or restaurant that is doing anything special for Valentine's Day or have you a tale to tell about how you are coping with the latest lockdown, then please email [email protected].