CINEMAS in Gwent and across the UK are closing their doors in a bid to halt the spread of coronavirus.

Odeon cinemas has announced all its branches have been closed.

In a statement posted on Twitter the cinema chain said: "Following Government guidelines Odeon cinemas are closed until further notice.

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"If you have pre-booked tickets online these will be refunded automatically."

Meanwhile, Cineworld and Picturehouse have said all their cinemas in the UK will close starting from tomorrow, Wednesday, 18 March, and in Ireland starting on Tuesday, until further notice.

Cineworld Group chief executive Mooky Greidinger said: "At Cineworld and Picturehouse we are committed to providing safe and healthy environments for our employees and guests and have therefore made the difficult decision to close our cinemas in UK and Ireland until further notice.

"We deeply value our cinema-loving customers and have no doubt we will be serving everyone again as soon as possible with a full slate of Hollywood blockbusters and the best of independent films and content."

Vue has also confirmed all its 91 cinemas are closing.

Vue International founder and chief executive Tim Richards said: "Since the first news of the Covid-19 outbreak, we have been doing everything we can to provide a high-quality, enjoyable and safe big-screen experience for our customers.

"However in line with the UK Government's latest public health advice we will be closing all our 91 cinemas in the UK & Ireland from today, March 17, until further notice.

"As you would expect, we are also doing our part by putting employment policies in place so that our staff are protected and are not penalised financially.

"We want to wish all our customers and employees well during these difficult times. Thank you for your continued support and we look forward to welcoming you back at one of our cinemas soon."

Cineworld branches in Gwent:

  • Friars Walk, Newport
  • Newport Retail Park, Spytty, Newport

Vue branches in Gwent:

  • Glyndwr Road, Cwmbran

There are no Odeon or Picturehouse cinemas in Gwent.