Bettys has closed all six of its cafes and its cookery school in an effort to limit the spread of coronavirus.

Staff put up a notice on the door of the Bettys Cafe Tea Rooms in Harrogate detailing the decision based on government advice.

The Bettys shops will remain open as usual, as will the mail order service for collection or home delivery.

A spokesperson for the tea rooms said today: "Although we’re sad to close our cafés, it is absolutely the right thing to do at this time.

"In the coming days and weeks, we may have to take further steps to do our bit to get everyone through this strange and difficult time.

"Bettys has been around for 100 years, and once this passes we’ll still be here; kettle on, cakes freshly baked, with a smile for all who visit us."

The government asked the public to avoid pubs, clubs, theatres and social venues yesterday to curb the spread of COVID-19.

Larger hotels and restaurant owners in Harrogate reacted by calling on the government to provide them with financial support.