BUSINESSES which have been told to close and are continuing to trade are warned they could face unlimited fines.

Pendle Council is urging members of the public not to use or visit any businesses which are breaking the law.

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council, said: “Everyone has a duty to comply with the advice provided by the government in relation to coronavirus, in order to protect themselves and others.

“Most people and businesses are acting responsibly to try and see the end of the coronavirus outbreak. Unfortunately some are not.”

In response to this the Government issued regulations requiring certain businesses to close until further notice. This is enforceable by law.

“We all need to do what we can to reduce the spread of the virus so please don’t support those businesses which have ignored the notice to close,” Councillor Iqbal added.

Amongst those which have been told to close are restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs.

These businesses can no longer sell food or drink on the premises, including in beer gardens and other outside areas.

They are allowed to sell food and drink for consumption off the premises as takeaways.

Other types of businesses which have had to close include cinemas, theatres, spas, museums, clothing and electrical retailers.

Councillor Iqbal said: “We’re working with the police to make sure that these premises remain closed.

“These measures will be regularly reviewed over the coming weeks.”

Businesses which breach the regulations could be given unlimited fines.

As a further measure businesses that fail to comply could also face the loss of their alcohol license, where applicable.

You can report businesses breaking these rules by completing our online complaints form - www.pendle.gov.uk/complaints

Please choose Business Premises from the dropdown list.