All Wetherspoon pubs to remain open, says company

The news followed a speech by the Prime Minister on Monday, when he urged people to avoid going to pubs because of the coronavirus crisis.

The chain said all of its 870 pubs will remain open at all times, unless the Government says otherwise.

In order to enable social distancing, customers will be asked to avoid standing at the bar, and asked to sit at alternate tables.

Wetherspoon said customer space in its pubs is three times the size of the average pub.

Other precautions include paying for drinks by card, more cleaning and regular updates to staff on hand washing and other personal hygiene controls.

Chairman Tim Martin said: "We are continuing to take account of official guidance from the UK Government and Public Health England."