A FOOD business has decided to temporarily close its doors over concerns of rising Covid-19 cases in the area.

Tracy's Kitchen, based at The Masons Arms in Dalton, has announced that it will be shutting its doors until 'it feels safer' to reopen.

The kitchen is run by Tracy Taylor, who has been in the catering industry for more than 30 years.

In a statement released on the kitchen's social media page, bosses said is has been 'a very testing time' for small businesses.

It read: "Due to the rise in Covid-19 cases in our local area, we’ve decided it’s in our customers’ and staff members’ best interest to close Tracy’s Kitchen for the time being.

"We’ll be reviewing the R-rate weekly and intend to reopen when it feels safer. Thank you to all of our customers for the ongoing support and loyalty throughout what has been a very testing time for small businesses.

"If Covid has taught us anything, it’s that we need to support local. Stay safe, we’ll see you on the other side."

Ms Taylor said she has been thinking about shutting up shop for weeks over fears of a second lockdown.

She said: "With the way things are going it just makes sense.

"I've been thinking about shutting for weeks because I'm scared there will be a second lockdown.

"I thought I may as well cut my losses and shut for now.

"That was the best decision for me but it's entirely up to other businesses what they choose to do.

"I think it's time to just have a break and start looking after myself.

"I'm going to play it by ear and assess the situation week by week before we consider reopening again.

"We'll reopen when the infection rate is down and it feels safer to do so."