A TOWN centre chip shop has encouraged people to stay home as it prepares to close its doors during the coronavirus outbreak.

Dino’s has been a staple of Haddington High Street for more than 30 years but will shut tonight (Thursday).

Tino Pacitti, manager, felt that the time had come where he had to temporarily close the business.

He posted on social media: “After reviewing the current situation, I have decided that we will temporarily cease all trading inclusive of deliveries after 10pm tonight.

“I feel we have reached a penultimate point where if we were to open this weekend it could pose too much potential risk with the volume of orders and the amount of people tempted to come out to come to the shop.

“Turning away customers at the door is something I thought I would never have to do and simply can’t continue to do.

“Everyone really needs to stay at home.

“The health and safety of our customers, staff and delivery drivers is our primary concern, taking into consideration the risk it could propose on all our own families.

“Ensuring my mum’s health is also at the forefront of this decision.”

The business, opened by Tino’s dad Dino, toasted its 30th birthday last year.

Tino thanked customers and hoped they would be back open soon.

He added: “Thank you for your continued support during this difficult period and hope you can all understand my reasoning.

“We look forward to welcoming you all back again as soon as it is safe to do so.

“In Italy they are saying ‘Andra Tutto Bene’, which translates to ‘Everything is going to be alright’.

“Wishing good health to you all from Tino, Angela and all the team at Dino’s.”