BOSSES at Redditch’s Kingfisher Shopping Centre have said they have protocols in place to try to combat the spread of coronavirus.

They said that the centre has established measures in place in line with the guidance issued by Public Health England, and is encouraging all visitors and staff to regularly wash their hands.

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It comes as there are calls to cancel some sports and other large events due to coronavirus.

However, doing so would be “premature”, the Culture Secretary said, as the Prime Minister gathered ministers for an emergency Cobra meeting to discuss the next steps to tackle the illness.

While some other European countries are cancelling mass gatherings or limiting the number of people who can attend big events, Oliver Dowden said there are “no plans” for Britain to follow suit.

Mr Dowden insisted the Government is following the advice of health officials and, while the situation is kept under review, there is currently “no need” to cancel big events or for people to avoid museums or other public places.

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A spokesperson from Kingfisher Shopping Centre said: “The wellbeing of our visitors and staff members is our highest priority.

"We continue to closely monitor the Covid-19 situation and to the latest advice being provided by the government and authorities.

"The centre has an established health and safety protocol in place in line with the guidance issued by Public Health England and we are encouraging all our visitors and staff to practice good hygiene with regular hand washing.

"We will continue to work closely with the local authority to mitigate as far as we can any potential risk to the public.”