Hemswell Antiques Centre near Gainsborough is closed to the public but continuing online

Robert Miller, Hemswell Antique Centres managing director

Hemswell Antique Centres near Gainsborough has closed its doors to the public for the foreseeable future but the company, which employs around 50 staff, stressed that it is continuing to trade via its website at www.hemswell-antiques.com.

Managing director Robert Miller said: "Unfortunately, as a business, we have no option but to close our site to visitors as it is our responsibility to be part of the national situation to stop the spread of this horrendous virus.”

More than 350 dealers trade from the four buildings which make up Hemswell Antique Centres on a former World War Two Bomber Command airfield.

Mr Miller said: "With effect from April 1, I will be freezing all rents for two months, after which we will review the situation.

"The coronavirus advice continues to change daily and, following the Government directive by Boris Johnson, Hemswell Antique Centres closed with immediate effect on the morning of Tuesday, March 24."

Cafes in two of the buildings, Building 1 and The Guardroom, are also closed.

Mr Miller added: "Our online business www.hemswell-antiques.com will continue to operate as usual and members of the team will work in groups of no more than two people photographing, uploading stock to the website and then remotely assisting with enquiries, sales and deliveries which will be dealt with when able."

Hemswell Antique Centres forms part of a sizeable business estate from which a number of other independent antiques businesses also operate.

In a statement online, Mr Miller, said: “We are obviously all being guided by the Government on how long we close for but we are assuming it will be between eight to 12 weeks. Please be assured we will keep in regular touch with you when we all have a clearer picture.

“Thank you to our brilliant employees for their hard work during this incredibly challenging time. On behalf of all our staff, I would like to thank you all for your tremendous support during this challenging time. Stay safe and well and we hope to see you very soon.”