THE Feversham Arms Hotel in Helmsley has closed its restaurant after a member of staff tested positive for coronavirus.

A spokesperson said: "A member of the kitchen team has tested positive for COVID-19 and is now in isolation, together with their household bubble.

"As a precautionary measure, we have asked the rest of the kitchen team on the same shift to self-isolate and take a test.

"We have taken the decision to close the restaurant for lunch, afternoon tea and evening meal, and will be operating bed and breakfast for residents only, with a separate team.

"The restaurant will fully reopen once we have received negative tests or the team have completed their self-isolation period and are able to fulfil the kind of service and high standard of food we are renown for.

"We are in the process of getting in touch with guests who were looking forward to dining with us to explain their options and look forward to welcoming them back for the full dining experience very soon.

"A deep clean operation has been undertaken on top of our stringent protocols already in place and we are in close contact with the relevant authorities and continue to adhere to the current guidance.

"Our manifesto and covid related updates are listed on our website in the ‘About Us’ section for any further information."

Yestterday (Wednesday), the Gazette & Herald reported that The Star Inn at Harome had closed for two weeks after a member of staff tested positive for coronavirus.

A positive test has also been recorded at the Stapleton arms at Wass, which has closed for a fortnight.