SHOPS and businesses across Largs, Millport and neighbouring towns have closed down after a week of battling to keep the wheels turning in the face of the coronavirus outbreak.

Only a few food suppliers, petrol stations and pharmacies remain in operation, alongside Largs Post Office, which has introduced reduced working hours.

Many small firms had tried to put measures in place to keep going during the crisis but were ordered to shut by Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday evening.

A list of local shops doing deliveries features here https://www.largsandmillportnews.com/news/18311944.businesses-largs-millport-deliver-door/?fbclid=IwAR1tDkjSPaV5MgPqxxwAptLNJBhyhiUOsXUM2pqIQpMnKkMcvpCEJfnf0R4

Deli Il Cardo John Corrigan said: "We have never experienced anything like this.

"We have now closed as staff and customers need to be protected. Only total isolation can rid ourselves of this deadly disease so we can get back to trading as normal.

"It was very upsetting for the staff to close the deli as they are all passionate about the business and the regular customers that they have got to know over the last four years."

"We would like to thank everyone for their continued support."

Green Shutters owner Jim Walker said: "We had hoped that we would be able to remain open with a limited service as there are many who depend upon us for a whole host of reasons.

"The reality is though that the rapidly changing situation means that we have to respond differently to protect everyone. The good news is that folk are pulling together and the customers we were most worried about have other arrangements in place now. We are doing everything we can to protect the business so as to be fitter and stronger once the crisis subsides, whenever that may be."

Scott Paton, owner of AD Paton butcher, said: "We have been quite busy and doing a lot of deliveries for all the people who can't get out.

"Chicken is getting a bit slow in terms of supply and getting a bit hard to come by.

"We have a fair bit of supply with a lot of fresh meats and pies - and we would encourage everyone to shop locally to support businesses in town including ourselves.

"We have serving for around 170 years and we will try and continue doing so for as long as we can.

"Everything is in place in terms of social distancing and we are wiping all the surfaces and tills down and washing our hands after every sale. Phone 672225."

John Watson, fishmonger at C Fayre said; " The shop is now closed for at least three weeks . But don’t worry we are doing home deliveries, so if you would like some nice fresh fish give us a call on 01475 672102 and we will deliver to your door . You can also order online @ www.cfayre.co.uk"

Lounge in Largs issued a statement to customers: ”Sad as this may be, we whole heartedly understand and know this is the right decision.

"Our main concern throughout all of this has always been our amazing and committed staff, who trusted us to navigate them through such uncertain times and to hear that they will all be ok financially is a huge relief to us.

“So with a bit of a heavy heart it’s certainly not goodbye, just see you all soon. Stay safe."

Claudio Nardini, co-owner of Nardini at the Moorings, said his firm were currently involved in a wrangle to make sure insurance covers their losses.

He told the News: "I have had problems with insurance companies who are looking to wriggle out of the situation.

"We are covered for pandemics but the insurance is telling us that unless there is an incident that happens on your premises resulting in the local authority shutting you down, they won't pay up. It is unacceptable. The government should force these companies to play ball.

"A lot of businesses are on edge."

Brian Flannigan, owner of Fairlie's Village Inn, said: "It is with deep regret that after a conversation that we have had with the local council and yesterday’s comments from the Prime Minister it has been advised that we follow the instructions to stay closed and no longer do takeaways until further notice.

"Debbie and myself are extremely gutted to do so but understand that it is in the best interest of everyone to do so.

"Therefore we would really like to thank everyone for their support and we hope to get through these hard time’s and be able to serve you all soon."