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KFC has become the latest high street restaurant to announce it would be shutting down stores completely.

The chain joins Subway, McDonald's, Greggs and Nando's in shutting down all operations as a result of the pandemic.

Subway said its branches will shut by 5pm, Monday, while McDonald's will close at 7pm. Greggs said they would close tonight and not open tomorrow.

"We've decided, together with our franchise partners, to begin closing our restaurants to help protect the wellbeing and safety of our teams and of our guests," KFC said in a statement.

"Restaurants will begin closing from now. They will all close by Wednesday 25th March until further notice.

"It's not a decision we've taken lightly, but it's in the best interests of both incredible teams and all the fans that love our chicken."

(Image: twitter)

KFC said it would find ways to distribute uneaten food to those who need it most through charities it workd with.

"This is already underway in cities actoss the country and we're grateful to our partners for their continued support," KFC said.

Cafés Pret, Starbucks and Costa have also said they will shutter shops, while restaurants Pizza Express, Zizzi, ASK Italian and TGI FRiday have also closed.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said retailers who were not providing "essential items" should shut their doors.

Sturgeon, who has been attending Cobra meetings where the UK's response to the coronavirus crisis has been co-ordinated, said too many people were still being expected to work as normal.

"My message to shops that are still open is this and it is clear, if you are not providing essential items like food and medicines then please also close now," Sturgeon said.