McDonald's is to shut all its UK and Ireland restaurants due to the coronavirus crisis.
The fast food chain said its stores would close by 7pm on Monday, March 23 at the latest.
Until now, the chain was operating as a drive-thru only after closing its restaurant seating areas.
In a statement posted to its Facebook page on Sunday night, McDonald's said: "We have not taken this decision lightly, but one made with the wellbeing and safety of our employees in mind as well as in the best interests of our customers.
"We will work with local community groups to responsibly distribute food and drink from our restaurants in the coming days.
"Thank you to our brilliant employees for their hard work during this incredibly challenging time.
"We look forward to seeing you all again as soon as it is safe for us to reopen."
McDonald's becomes the latest high street name to announce a temporary closure. Earlier on Sunday, Primark said it is closing all of its 189 UK stores until further notice, as did HMV.
John Lewis is also closing all of its shops on Monday.
