A "BELOVED" farm park has temporarily closed its doors to control the spread of coronavirus.

Farmer Palmer's, in Organford, Poole, has announced its closure following the government's advice avoid mass gatherings and to close a number of social venues including restaurants, cinemas and gyms.

Anyone with existing bookings for parties will be contacted by the park.

In a statement they said: "We are heartbroken. Unfortunately, the time has come to temporarily close our doors.

"Following this evening's announcement from the Government regarding measures to control the spread of covid-19, we have had to make the incredibly difficult, yet responsible decision, to close our beloved Farm Park attraction to the public. We are so sorry.

"We did everything we could to stay open, and we really thought we'd be able to have just one more weekend to welcome you to enjoy some fresh air and play.

"Sadly this is not the case.

"We wholeheartedly thank you all for your support during this extremely challenging time.

"The health of our family, our customers, and our team members remains our biggest priority.

"We will now be updating our website and social media and contacting those of you with existing bookings for parties and answering your queries.

"Please bear with us, while we work through this as fast as we can.

"Preferably, send us an email rather than phoning. Our team will be on reduced hours which we will update you on via the website and social channels."

To contact them, email shop@farmerpalmers.co.uk.