A NORTH-EAST college has confirmed that a text message suggesting it had suddenly closed due to coronavirus is actually untrue.

On Thursday (March 12), an image of a text message which appeared to have been sent from Sunderland College circulated on social media.

The text, which appeared genuine and sent from 'Bede College,' advised the recipient to complete the rest of their studies elsewhere while the college remained closed.

It read: "Unfortunately due to the recent 'COVID-19' outbreak, the Bede College campus will be closing until further notice. Students will be provided with work to complete via Email and must be completed.

"We apologise for any inconvenience caused however the well-being and health of both students and staff of the college are our main priority. Regular updates will be provided and thank you for your co-operation."

The Northern Echo:

But confirming the college had remained open across all of its campuses, a spokesperson told The Northern Echo that the text message was a hoax.

They said: "We can confirm all our colleges are fully open, we have no cases of coronavirus.

"This text message has not originated from us. We are following guidance from Public Health England."

So far Sunderland and Newcastle have both had COVID-19 cases confirmed by Public Health England.

As of 2pm on Friday (March 13), the number of confirmed cases across the UK had reached 798.