A BARBER'S shop that stayed open in defiance of government coronavirus lockdown restrictions has been forced to shut.

Pendle Council officials swooped on Dads and Lads in Richmond Court, Colne, after members of the public reported it was still operating despite legislation brought in to stop the spread of Covid-19.

Now the business has been served a prohibition notice for breaking lockdown rules.

Officials have visited the shop several times since to make sure it has stayed shut.

Cllr Mohammed Iqbal, Leader of Pendle Council, said: "We were given no option but to issue Dads and Lads with a prohibition notice to ensure they stopped trading immediately.“But it’s important we take action."

He added: "It’s also extremely unfair on other businesses which have complied with the legislation and closed, if others do not”

Michael Duck, Pendle Council's environmental health team leader, said: “Throughout the pandemic we’ve supported local businesses to guide them through the new legislation.

“Most of Pendle’s businesses have welcomed this support and have ensured they are doing all they can to protect the health and wellbeing of their staff and customers.”