Carlisle United have announced a shutdown of Brunton Park tonight.

It sees on-site business operations closed at the stadium and practically all staff sent home.

The Blues Store club shop and ticket office have both closed.

Only "unavoidable stadium care" will continue at the ground with staff otherwise now working from home.

The measures follow tonight's statement from the Prime Minister which instructed people to stay at home to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

United had kept their ticket office and shop open with reduced hours until today.

In a statement, the club said: "As we continue to review coronavirus developments we can confirm that all non-essential on-site business operations have ceased at Brunton Park with immediate effect.

"The closure will be for an indefinite period, but all departments will remain contactable, either by phone on 0330 094 5930 or by email, as we now implement a strict work-from-home policy."

Chief executive Nigel Clibbens said: "Staff will no longer work at the stadium, and the Blues Store will cease all activities immediately.

"This includes online shop sales - refunds will be issued to those who have placed recent orders. Please remain patient as we process these transactions.

“Only absolutely unavoidable essential stadium care will continue and, even then, that will only be done as required as we continue to place the safety of our staff and supporters above everything else.”

Staff in various club departments can be contacted on the above number or via email.