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Stores in the island’s capital have announced closures and cuts in hours, while the heritage railways are closed with immediate effect.

It was announced tonight (Thursday), that fashion retailer TK Maxx has shut its doors for the foreseeable future.

Douglas Town Centre Management said that the company, based on Strand Street, has made ’a business decision with all stores closing to ensure the safety of staff’.

It is also stated that no staff will be losing their jobs.

A statement from DTCM added: ’TK Maxx are not closing for good and will be reopening at some point in the future.’

The move by TK Maxx follows M&S, which announced its cafe will remain closed for the next few weeks.

A statement by the company said: ’The health and well-being of our colleagues and customers is our number one priority. The cafe is now closed. Thank you for your understanding.’

Jewellers H.Samuel has also temporarily changed its opening hours to Monday to Saturday 9am to 4pm and Sunday 11am to 4pm.

It was also then confirmed by the government late on Thursday evening that the island’s railways were closing.

A government spokesman said: ’To ensure the continued safety of the public and their staff Isle of Man Railways have announced all Isle of Man Heritage Railways will suspend operations from this evening (19 March). The situation will be regularly reviewed in the light of ongoing developments.

’The famous dining car events on the steam railway and the Snaefell Summit dinners will also cease operating from today. The team will contact all customers who have booked for these events to make suitable alternative arrangements.

’Port Erin Railway Museum will be closed from today and the Rush Hour on the Railways event will also be cancelled. Discussions will commence with commercial tenants and off-island travel partners to support them and mitigate the impact of the situation.

’Any annual passes for the railways will be extended into next season to take into account the period of closure.’

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