With the UK in lockdown as coronavirus spreads, the president of the National Federation of Fish Fryers (NFFF) has advised fish & chip shops to close their doors.

UK fryers’ federation advises shutdown

UK fish and chip shops have been advised not to open, due to safety fears for both staff and customers. Photo: NFFF

According to NFFF President Andrew Crook, the board took the decision to advise shops to close as without help with marshalling queues and with Government guidelines the safety of employees and the general public cannot be guaranteed.

“The closure of other food options and the sunny weather has compounded this problem with many facing a backlash from the public,” he said.

“Some businesses may operate a delivery service and if they can satisfy themselves that they can operate safely and within government guidelines then that may be an option for them.”

The NFFF represents 10,000 fish and chip shops throughout the UK.

“If we are needed to provide any assistance in a humanitarian capacity I know I can guarantee shops will be willing to reopen,” he said, adding that the NFFF will reassess this advice on a weekly basis.

“This is an awful situation for all, we will get through this and fish and chips will live on.”