Bosses at The Stone Crab in Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire, Wales, made the decision after the Met Office issued an amber warning for extreme heat yesterday. They say staff have "suffered" already in the 30C heat and the break will help keep them safe.

       The hospitality industry has suffered hugely during the Covid pandemic and is only starting to benefit from the end of restrictions.

       Some social media users have criticised The Stone Crab for taking the decision at this crucial time.

       "We fall apart in the snow, and now the heat - get a grip, UK," one social media user posted.

       "Not sure this is right," another added.

       But temperatures are likely to remain as high as 32C in some parts this week.

       A statement on the restaurant's Facebook page reads: "It is with a heavy heart, and with deep thought that we have had to decide to close our doors for the next three days (20th, 21st and 22nd July) due to the high temperature warnings.

       "We cannot in good knowledge let our staff continue to suffer in this hot weather, we have already been under significant pressure whilst working due to the heatwave, and the new warnings that have come make it unsafe for our staff to work, let alone the hours that we are all working due to staff shortages in the area."

       It continues: "Those that'll have booked with us will be contacted within 24 hours and offered to re-book immediately, although please be patient with us finding you a suitable table as we are already booked up in advance as it is. We apologise again for the inconvenience but it is not an option to make our hard working staff suffer.

       "It is very unfortunate that this has happened and that it has come to us closing. We hope you stay safe and hydrated in the hot weather to come. We hope you all understand."

       The seafood restaurant, which is by the Welsh coast, will reopen on Friday, by which time temperatures are expected to cool.

       The current weather warning applies to south Wales, mid Wales, London and the southeast of England, southwest England and West Midlands.

       Met Office website reads: "High temperatures both by day and night will continue this week leading to public health impacts.

       "Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat.

       "The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses."