A Wetherspoon pub in Cumbria has been closed after a staff member tested positive for coronavirus.

The William Rufus, on Botchergate in Carlisle, was closed by pub bosses last night after a employee's home test kit came back positive.

The news & star understands the staff member was not displaying any symptoms but was concerned about a "local outbreak".

They completed the test on Monday, with the results coming through on Thursday.

Wetherspoon spokesman Eddie Gershon said: “Wetherspoon has taken the decision to temporarily close the pub.

“The local authority has not advised the company to close the pub.

“Both the local authority and public health bodies have been very helpful and supportive.

“Customer test and trace details have not yet been requested by the authorities but are available when needed.

“Wetherspoon will reopen the pub as and when it can get the number of staff needed to do so safely.”

Local authorities, in conjunction with public health bodies, have identified two shifts the individual worked on July 24 and July 28.

The member of staff who tested positive had responsibilities throughout the pub.

Contact details for all staff (24 in total) working on these two shifts have been provided, so the NHS Test and Trace teams can contact the individuals and provide advice.

As a result of these employees having to isolate the pub was closed early on Friday (July 31).

The pub chain says customer test and trace details have not yet been requested but are available when needed.