More than 53,000 outlets across the UK have so far signed up to the government's Eat Out to Help Out scheme - and a new official government online finder  is available to help diners locate them.

Customers who want to take advantage of the scheme are advised to look out for the logo, as Eat Out to Help Out stickers and posters start to appear in the windows of restaurants, cafes, bars and other establishments across the country.

The logo means diners that eat in will benefit from a 50 per cent discount, up to a maximum of £10 per person, on food and non-alcoholic drinks, any Monday to Wednesday in August - and no voucher is required. Customers can take advantage of the offer as many times as they like during the month.

Rishi Sunak, chancellor of the exchequer, said: "Our restaurants, cafes and bars play a vital role in our economy, employing more than a million people. They have been hit hard by coronavirus, so it's vital we do everything we can to help them recover.

"Our Eat Out to Help Out scheme is designed to get more customers through the door - protecting jobs by giving businesses the confidence to retain and hire staff. More than 53,000 businesses across the country have already signed up, and from today you'll be able to find one near you with the online finder."

Sam Holliday, FSB development manager for Gloucestershire, said: "It is great news that so many restaurants have already signed up for this scheme, as it really gives an opportunity for the hospitality sector to start moving again in the direction we all want, and need, it to go.

"I typed in my own postcode in Gloucester and found there were 84 places within just five miles of my home signed up for the scheme already, which shows that it really has captured the imagination of local restaurants, cafés, tearooms and more.

"What we need to do now is hope that customers in Gloucestershire and beyond will respond to this generous offer to not only get out and enjoy a meal in a safe and pleasant environment, but also to do their bit to help get our economy moving again in the right direction at this critical time."

To find out if a restaurant is participating in the Eat Out to Help Out scheme you can use the online restaurant finder now live on GOV.UK . Simply enter your postcode, or one near to where you want to eat out, to get a list of participating outlets within a five-mile radius.

You can also get in touch with your local restaurant to see if they're taking part or check their website.

Participating outlets must wait seven days from registration to make their first claim, with all eligible claims being paid within five working days. Claims can be submitted weekly, and businesses are encouraged to register 3rd August to benefit for the entire month.

Further information for businesses, including how to register and make a claim, is available online  at GOV.UK.