THERE has been a Covid outbreak at Shanklin Conservative Club, with three confirmed cases and several members self-isolating and awaiting test results.

In a newsletter sent out to its members, the club said it had no choice put to close its doors immediately.

"I have been informed this week of a few members that were self isolating due to displaying Covid symptoms and waiting on a test result," said James for the club.

"We also had a confirmed case yesterday, and another confirmed positive test result this morning (Thursday).

"I have been in regular contact with Public Health England and followed all of their advice, including tracing their close contacts and informing them they need to self isolate.

"Because it felt like it was getting close to home and I was due to spend Christmas Day with an elderly family member who is due to be vaccinated shortly, I took a test on Tuesday as a precaution to ensure I was negative.

"I wasn't showing any symptoms and was advised there was no need for me to self isolate or be tested, but I just wanted that peace of mind.

"This morning, I woke up to a text message from the NHS informing me I have tested positive.

"I am still showing no symptoms but will now self isolate for ten days from the day of my test.

"We came to the conclusion that we have no other choice but to close the club immediately.

"I am so sorry that we find ourselves in this situation, I had the shock of my life when I saw that text this morning, it was literally the last thing I was expecting.

"I understand a lot of your Christmas plans will now be in ruins and I can only apologise for that.

"Please take care of yourselves and enjoy your Christmas. Lets just hope that 2021 brings us greater joy than 2020."