The number of businesses in Thanet issued warnings for flouting the lockdown rules has now hit 28.

A total of 14 warning letters and three immediate prohibition notices - which forces them to shut down - were issued by the district council at the end of March.

But now a further nine warning letters and five immediate prohibition notices have been served to businesses which have remained open in defiance of new rules amid the coronavirus pandemic.

One persistent location breached its prohibition notice and further legal action is being considered.

Since late March, new regulations came into force and it has become an offence for many types of businesses - including bars, clubs, and pubs - to stay open.

Businesses breaching the rules are initially served a warning letter, then further investigations are carried out.

Where a premise is found to have contravened the legislation or continues to do so, an immediate prohibition notice is issued.

Deputy leader of Thanet District Council Cllr Helen Whitehead said it is a "huge disappointment" five more businesses have been served with prohibition notices.

"We have a collective responsibility to protect each other during this pandemic by staying at home," she said.

"Businesses which stay open and therefore encourage others to risk their health and the health of others will be forced to close.

"We know that this is a worrying time for many business owners and want to remind them that there are grants available for small businesses and those in the retail, hospitality and leisure sector.

"We have already started transferring money to those who’ve contacted us and would urge all eligible businesses not to delay their application."

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