TWO peninsula venues have closed temporarily after a cluster of Covid-19 cases were discovered in the Kilcreggan area.

NHS Highland's health protection team confirmed on Monday evening that there had been an outbreak in the village following a private function at Cove and Kilcreggan Bowling Club last week.

Thirteen positive cases of coronavirus were found in people who had attended the event last Monday, September 7, while a staff member at Kilcreggan Primary School has also tested positive.

Four-star Knockderry Country House Hotel, in Shore Road, Cove, has closed temporarily, with owners Beth and Murdo MacLeod hoping to re-open next week.

A statement on the Knockderry Hotel's Facebook page on Tuesday afternoon said: "Following the recent announcement that there have been a number of positive cases recorded in the local area, we have temporarily closed the hotel to protect staff and visitors.

READ MORE: NHS confirms Covid-19 outbreak linked to Cove and Kilcreggan Bowling Club

"We are taking all appropriate advice from EHO [environmental health officers] and we hope to re-open again on Thursday, September 24."

Meanwhile, Cove Burgh Hall has also postponed its planned re-opening due to the sudden rise in cases locally.

Alison Morrison, chair and director of the venue's board, said: "Recent events, including rising statistics at a national level, and local positive tests of Covid-19, have led to us putting the re-opening of the hall for groups on hold for the time being.

"The library has announced temporary closure with immediate effect.

"We will keep the situation under review and be in touch when the level of confidence is such that the Hall can safely re-open.

"With the virus literally on or doorstep, the health and safety of our community is our priority."

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