The demand comes as nearly 15,000 people in less than a week have signed a petition calling for better support for the industry.

UK scientists have already voiced serious concerns over a spike in Covid cases in the new year as a result of more people socialising in homes over Christmas.

More flexibility in local restrictions and better grant support, including the lifting of caps on financial help, are needed to avoid the sector being punished for irresponsible private gatherings.

Stephen Montgomery, group spokesperson, said: “We need the Scottish Government to tweak the tiers and let viable businesses trade over a crucial time of year. That will allow us to provide spaces for safer socialising, minimising the risks of a third wave.

“We all want to have the best Christmas at home possible but it could signal last orders for many local operators. If that’s what happens as a result of the government going against its own approach to date, then that would be yet another agonising blow for all those hard-working staff who’ve endured so much throughout the pandemic.”

Nicola MacDonald, who works at Lido Troon café, bar and restaurant, operated by SHG member Buzzworks, said: “I’ve worked in hospitality as a full-time assistant manager and also as a part-time manager whilst studying.

“Furlough has been good but I’ve been impacted badly due to the average calculations, and our tips help with the extras. With the constant uncertainty I’m getting pretty anxious about how I’ll manage from a financial and job security view, and to be honest the lack of opportunity.

“It’s starting to grind me down and all the people I work with and lots of the guys are struggling emotionally. The business has been great but despite reassurances we all worry about how long they can sustain the losses.”

A new petition publicised only this week calling for the Scottish Government to ‘tweak the tiers’ is already approaching 15,000 signatories.

It is part of a broader campaign across social and media to address minor changes in restrictions that could avoid business closures and redundancies.