The Alchemist announces temporary closures of all UK sites

Cocktail bar and restaurant The Alchemist has announced that all its sites are closed amid the recent outbreak of the Covid-19 virus.

The company, which has 20 sites across the country, released a statement that confirmed the closure.

The statement read: “Our venues are closed, which means we’ve put things on dry ice for the time being. If you have made future plans with us, a member of our team will be in touch to rearrange reservations, manage any deposits, or answer any questions you may have.”

The company continued to thank its customers for “showing some love and understanding” during this “uncertain and challenging time”.

The news follows just days after the prime minister urged the public to stay at home.

In a recorded address filmed in No 10 Downing Street, Johnson said the police will have the power to disperse groups of more than two people, and levy on-the-spot fines for people flouting the new rules.

Johnson revealed the UK public are only allowed to venture out of their homes for “essential supplies” and one exercise outing per day, or face fines.

He said: “You should not be meeting friends. If your friends ask you to meet, you should say ‘No’. You should not be meeting family members who do not live in your home. You should not be going shopping except for essentials like food and medicine – and you should do this as little as you can.”

“If you don’t follow the rules the police will have the powers to enforce them, including through fines and dispersing gatherings.”