Independent businesses in Winchester have been hit in a way “which we have never seen before” as coronavirus fears stop shoppers and eaters from venturing into the city.

Footfall and sales have fallen for many small firms in the city centre, while other outlets have experienced panic buying.

As Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced people should avoid offices, pubs and travelling, businesses have been counting the cost.

One of those is owned of Eclectic Hound James Duffield, who said: “We have noticed day by day footfall has been slowing down generally and this week it has been a lot more.”

When referring to government measures, he added: “I definitely think they could be better, everyone is going to need all the help they can get.”

Mr Duffield added that if measures are not put in place they “will be forced to close”.

And co-owner of Forme, in Parchment Street, Andrew Butling echoed the sentiment.

“We are looking at the television and seeing what is happening in Italy and France and their governments are making very strong statements about what they require of small businesses and what they are going to do help them. We have no real clarity on what they [the UK Government] actually want, they are just suggesting a bit of this and a bit of that.

“They are putting responsibility on other but no authority.”

And for Celeste Butling, who owns the store alongside Andrew, she is fearful about the future, saying: “We have been incredibly quiet. It has affected business in a way which we have never seen before, it is not compatible to any situation in the past compounded by the fact that we have no time frame.

“There is a sense that your livelihood is slipping through your fingers and we haven’t got anything to fall back on. There is a sense of massive worry and apprehension.”

Cassi White, owner of Projects in Middle Brook Street, said the business is remaining opening, adding: “I am still unsure what we are doing is the right thing as the situation is constantly changing.

“Do I particularly want to the government’s advice, do I trust them.”

She continued: “Walking down the high street you get a real sense that no one is around, it is going to be a difficult few weeks.”

Forte Kitchen also announced on Tuesday that it would be closing for the foreseeable future.

A notice on their window reads: “We have taken this decision with heavy hearts but with social responsibility at the forefront of our minds. This is naturally devastating for our teams and their families.

“We are doing what we can to help slow down the spread and urge others to do the same.

“At this difficult time for the whole community we are sending all of our love to our customers. We will be donating our food to local organisations to ensure it nourishes those who need it right now.”

Also closed yesterday was HSBC, Anthropologie and Rawberry.

But one business in Winchester is bucking the trend, Toscanaccio, in Parchment Street, has seen an increase in sales.

Owner Cat Brandwood said: “So far for us we have not seen any change, if anything sales are up.

“There has been some older people, in particular, ordering cases of wine, suppose they think they are going to stuck in their house for a period of time and don’t think they are going to unwell.”

And Toby Roberts who owns D & G Hardware said: “Trade has been very buoyant and we have been trying to gain supply of the products that people want, largely cleaning, bleach and personal products. We do have obvious concerns about our supply chain keeping up and my staff being able to cope and not getting unwell.”

Mr Roberts said that the chain has introduced a “rigorous approach to try and stay ultra clean” and will be introducing a delivery service for those who are self isolating.

Winchester BID executive director Paul Spencer said: “This is going to be a challenging time for the business community and we have created a page on our website to help ensure businesses are fully informed and can access the advice and guidance they may need.

“We are also advising businesses to build their own resilience by reviewing their business continuity plan and considering the potential impacts on their supply chains, customers and other factors critical to their operations.

“Last week the government announced a series of measures in the budget that will support businesses coping with the economic impact of coronavirus. We have included details on our website and encourage business owners to contact us if they have questions or need help and we will do all we can to assist.”