A FISH and chip shop has been forced to close for 10 days after a staff member started displaying Covid-19 symptoms.

Owners of the Tasty Plaice, Tilehurst, announced on the shop's Facebook page on Sunday (January 10) that the team now need to be tested and isolate accordingly.

They also said a deep cleaning exercise would be administered throughout the shop, located in Park Lane.

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The message to customers ended: "We are really sorry to have to close but safety of customers and staff is of paramount importance.

"We will post about a future re-opening date.

"Thank you, stay safe everyone."

The popular eatery had been open for deliveries since the latest national lockdown, and customers responded to thank staff and send their best wishes.

Replying to the Facebook message, Kelly Cox said: "You are doing the right thing... all of your customers will respect you for understanding everyone’s health is more important than money, hope everyone is ok", while Sandrine Hardy added: "Take care and thank you for doing the right thing- hope you are all ok."

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It comes as Reading records more than 1,000 cases in just one week for the first time in the pandemic, as the spike in cases continues.

Friday’s Covid statistics covering December 27 to January 2 saw cases in a single week hit 1,036 in Reading, with a rate of 640 per 100,000 people.

In the latest week with full data – December 31 to January 6 – there were 1,148 positive cases, with a rate of 709.6 per 100,000.

Cases have been rising since the beginning of December, with a sharp increase since Christmas.