THE council in a North Yorkshire town has taken the decision to close culture, tourism and leisure facilities due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Harrogate Borough Council has taken the decision to close these facilities in line with government guidance on social distancing and interaction.

Councillor Stanley Lumley, cabinet member with responsibility for sport and leisure, said: “We do not take these decisions lightly, but this is the right thing for us to do.

“We all have a role to play in doing what we can to prevent the spread by encouraging greater social distancing.

“By closing these facilities, we’re protecting our customers and our staff.”

The council has decided to close its leisure centres, swimming pools, community centres, Turkish Baths, two museums, the Mercer art gallery and tourist information centres.

The closure runs from last Friday until further notice.

For customers with memberships, these will be suspended and there will be no charge for the months of April and May.

Customers who have existing bookings will be contacted over the coming days.