Isle of Man Golf has closed all of the courses across the island amidst the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

In a statement released on Wednesday evening, the Manx sporting governing body said: ’Following the announcement of restrictions of movement in the Isle of Man by the Chief Minister, which mirrors those taken by the UK Government on March 23, we must follow the recommendation from England Golf and close all golf courses in the island whilst the restrictions remain in place.

’It is England Golf’s position that this deeply regrettable, but highly necessary and responsible course of action must be implemented with immediate effect and be maintained until further notice.

’The government has identified an urgent need to introduce new restrictions on public life and on non-essential businesses opening their doors.

’This has been done to limit the spread of the coronavirus and relieve the growing pressure on our National Health Service.

’Keeping golf courses open is simply no longer compatible with the updated policy of government which is designed to save lives in a time of national emergency. The health and wellbeing of the nation is the only consideration that matters at this moment in our history.

’The golf industry cannot be shielded from the economic and social ramifications caused by this temporary shutdown of normal life.’