As the UK prepares for further measures to be taken to tackle COVID-19, Arnold Clark - who has garages in Carlisle and Lillyhall - are taking our own steps to ensure the safety of employees, customers and communities.

The company has taken the decision to close the business down temporarily, with the last day of operation being Wednesday.

The shutdown will last until at least April 13, or until any potential government lockdown is lifted.

A spokesman for Arnold Clark said: "We understand that this is a concerning time for everyone, and as we enter into this unchartered territory, we want to ensure that our customers are provided with as much information as possible and that any questions you may have are answered."

All showroom sales stopped today and any customers in the process of purchasing a vehicle will be contacted directly by the sales team.

Any vehicles already in the workshop will be completed by Friday, March 27. Future bookings from Wednesday will be rescheduled to the week commencing Tuesday, April 14.

A spokesman continued: "In the coming days, while we work to lock down our sites, increased hygiene and social distancing measures – including a reduction of staffing levels to essential employees – will be introduced across all sites to limit as much customer contact as possible. All employees who can work remotely have been asked to and we continue to ask all vulnerable groups to remain at home in line with government advice.

"As the country pulls together during this anxious time, we aim to continue our support of the heroic work done by our frontline NHS workers.

"Our offer to try and assist NHS staff with transport to and from their place of work still stands, and they can continue to contact us to request this help at csr@arnoldclark.com.

"While we take these steps to protect our employees and customers, we want to ensure we play our part in helping the NHS during this period.

"Our offer of two free, insured vehicles at each of our UK rental branches also stands. These vehicles are there to be used locally if anyone needs them to assist vulnerable groups. Drivers must be over 25 and are subject to the usual insurance checks. Please continue to contact rental.reservations@arnoldclark.com for more information."