All performances at the Anvil and the Haymarket have been cancelled because of the continuing coronavirus outbreak.

It follows a similar decision from the Lights in Andover this morning (Tuesday).

On Monday evening, Prime Minister Boris Johnson advised people not to visit pubs, cafes, restaurants and theatres, as an increase in social distancing to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.

It comes as he urged people to work from home where possible and to stop all but essential travel. The Foreign Office also advised against all but essential travel globally.

Speaking on Tuesday, a spokesperson for Anvil Arts said: "Following the government’s announcement yesterday, both The Anvil and The Haymarket will be closed to the public until further notice and scheduled performances will not take place.

"We will be contacting all ticket holders in date order of performance as quickly as possible. Please refrain from contacting the box office regarding ticket refunds, we will contact you.

"As a charity, we will be working hard to deal with the financial implications of this period of closure. Please consider donating the cost of your ticket to The Anvil Trust rather than requesting a credit note or refund.

"We will keep the web site updated with further information.

"Thank you for your understanding in this unprecedented situation."

Later on Tuesday, the chancellor set out measures to help the industry in light of the outbreak, including by giving all businesses in the leisure industry a 12-month break from business rates.

Rishi Sunak added that cash grants of 25,000 pounds per leisure business will also be available.