'At least 40 cars': Leeds residents queue outside McDonald's as chain announces closures due to coronavirus

Cars were 'lapping around the building' according to one passer-by of the Easterly Road chain restaurant in Oakwood.

It comes after McDonald's announced all of its restaurants in the UK and Ireland will close by 7pm on Monday to protect the safety of its employees and customers.

The fast-food chain, which has 135,000 employees in the UK and Ireland, posted a statement about the "difficult decision" to Twitter - adding that stores will close by that time on Monday "at the latest".

The onlooker told the Yorkshire Evening Post: "Around 12.45pm the queue lapped round the building and out onto the road.

"There were at least 30-40 cars.

"Some had hazard lights on."

What is the current coronavirus advice?

On Saturday pubs, clubs and bars were closed to help prevent large gatherings and reduce the risk of the virus spreading, as far as possible.Anyone with a cough or any symptoms is being asked to self-isolate, while the advice to everyone is to minimise social contact as much as possible, and to only travel if absolutely essential.

Workers have been told to work from home if they can and to avoid going out in public other than for exercise. If you have to go out for food or a walk in an open public space, you must maintain at least two metres' distance to all others at all times.

Everyone should also be washing their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and hot water before leaving home and when returning, and wear gloves outdoors where possible.

Those in vulnerable groups, such as those who need a flu jab or are over 70, are being told to be extra cautious and also isolate themselves.

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