Dumfries House has closed its doors to help keep staff and visitors safe during the coronavirus pandemic.

The stately home took the decision on Sunday, March 22.

The Chronicle apologises for mistakenly publishing a notification that the estates were still open due to production deadlines.

A spokesperson for Dumfries House said: "Our priority is the health and wellbeing of all our staff, students, volunteers and visitors.

"We have sadly taken the decision to close our estates and gardens from midnight tonight, in addition to our indoor spaces, to help restrict the spread of coronavirus. We ask people to avoid travel and comply with social distancing guidance.

"Locally, this includes Dumfries House, the Visitor Centre, Woodlands restaurant, the Coach House Cafe, the Dumfries House education centres, New Cumnock Outdoor Swimming Pool, New Cumnock Town Hall and Dumfries House Lodge."

All public events and activity have also been cancelled and, if this affects you, then you will be contacted.

If you have an immediate enquiry or don't hear from Dumfries House then you can contact the team there at info@dumfries-house.org.uk.

The spokesperson added: "We thank you for your continued support and understanding in these uncertain times, and we look forward to letting you know about our plans for reopening as soon as we are able."