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The advice from the South Shields ice cream company comes as it works hard to keep customers safe during the pandemic and continue to serve them, from using contactless payment to extra cleaning efforts.

The advice from the South Shields ice cream company comes as it works hard to keep customers safe during the pandemic and continue to serve them, from using contactless payment to extra cleaning efforts.

It had previously said it was working hard to keep its cafes in Ocean Road and at The Walkway in Sea Road open.

Minchella and Co, which runs an ice cream parlour in Sea Road as well as Ocean Road, has taken steps to keep customers safe during the virus alert.

But today, Thursday, March 19, it issued an update saying it has moved to offering a take away only service.

The change started at noon.

It said: “The position we find ourselves in asks us to display morally, what we believe is the right thing to do, not only to our staff, family and friends, but to the wider community.

“This is why we have adopted this procedure.

Minchella's is planning to continue trading, but has urged those at risk during the coronavirus outbreak to stay away.

“We are analysing the situation daily and acting in line with Government recommendations.

“We hope everyone can appreciate the decision we have made, but it is with our greatest intent to do what we can to act with due diligence and to put safety first during this difficult time.”

It said it would continue to offer updates and thanked customers for their co-operation, sending their best wishes from the team.

In an earlier message, it asked those who are at a greater risk from the virus, including those aged 70 and over, with long-term conditions and pregnant women, to keep their distance from the business to keep people safe.

Minchella and Co is aiming to keep customers served with sweet treats and more during the COVID-19 alert.

It added: “the safety and wellbeing of our staff, customers and the wider community is of paramount importance to us.”

The company said is has increased washing and sterilisation procedures.

It also said it has asked all food handlers from kitchen, factory staff through to counter staff to follow strict and increased hygiene measures.

Fellow South Shields firm Dicksons has said it will be expanding its delivery service in the town through its app.

Coronavirus: Minchella asks those at risk to stay away as it strives to keep serving South Shields customers