KFC has pulled a series of adverts featuring customers licking their fingers after complaints they could encourage the spread of coronavirus.

The fast-food chain says it's "paused" the television, print and billboard campaign given the growing spread of coronavirus but says it hopes to bring them back in future.

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KFC has temporarily withdrawn an advert that sees fans licking their fingers Credit: KFC

It comes amid concerns the ad could encourage the spread of coronavirus Credit: KFC

Customers in the adverts are seen eating Colonel Sander's fried chicken in stores and licking their fingers after as part of KFC's usual "finger lick' good" strapline.

The adverts, which launched last month, racked up 163 complaints to the Advertising and Standards Authority (ASA).

But the ASA says it hasn't launched an official investigation as KFC voluntarily withdrew the campaign before it got in touch.

Britain's death toll from coronavirus has hit 35 after a huge increase in fatalities over the weekend.

IThe ASA received 163 complaints about the ads Credit: KFC

It features people eating fried chicken and licking their fingers after Credit: KFC

Health secretary Matt Hancock confirmed Brits over 70 are likely to be asked to self-isolate for up to four months in the coming weeks.

According to the NHS, the virus is incredibly contagious and is spread through contact with anything the virus is on as well as infected breath, coughs or sneezes.

The best way to prevent catching any form of coronavirus is to practice good hygiene.

Cleaning and disinfecting objects and surfaces which you may have touched is also important.

A KFC spokesperson said: “It doesn’t feel like the right time to be airing this campaign, so we’ve decided to pause it for now – but we’re really proud of it and look forward to bringing it back at a later date.”

The ASA declined to formally comment.

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It comes as millions of workers stay home today in ghost town Britain as UK coronavirus cases hit 1,391.