A NORTH EAST pub will close to undergo a deep clean after a member of staff tested positive for Covid earlier this week.

The Philadelphia pub in Philadelphia, near Houghton le Spring, confirmed it would remain closed for the rest of the week.

In a statement on social media, pub bosses on Monday night said a member of its team had tested positive for the virus.

It made the comments as it said all staff members would now be taking further tests to ensure they are in the clear before reopening.

It said: "Unfortunately, a member of our team has tested positive for Covid.

"With that in mind we have decided to close the pub for the rest of the week. The pub will undergo a deep clean and all staff members will be taking tests to ensure we are all clear before we reopen.

"Thank you all so much for your continued support and sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. We will make sure to keep everyone updated."

The positive test comes as the Prime Minister Boris Johnson yesterday confirmed the fourth and final easing of lockdown restrictions would still take place on July 19.

Meanwhile, the Government yesterday appeared to U-turn on use of face coverings beyond this date, with ministers suggesting people should still wear them indoors.

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