A HAMPSHIRE harbour authority has closed facilities as the coronavirus pandemic continues to escalate.

Lymington Harbour Commissioners (LHC) has shut all its moorings, pontoons and leisure berths.

The Town Quay and Bath Road slipways are closed for all launches, except those involving the Lymington lifeboat, and the public can no longer visit the lifeboat station.

The town's Italia Festival, which was due to take place on July 5, has been axed.

A festival spokesman said: "No one knows how long the restrictions on gatherings will last and if by any chance we are in the same situation next year, it will take place the following year.

"I would like to thank you all your support and understanding and wish you well and to keep safe during these very difficult and testing times."