YOUTH hostel leaders are in talks with health chiefs about supporting the coronavirus fight, it has emerged.

Hostelling Scotland says it will seek to play a part in virus control work as it closes its 33 properties to the public.

The budget hostelries are located all around the country, with sites in cities like Aberdeen and scenic areas like Applecross.

Today leaders have announced all doors will close amidst growing condemnation about continuing tourism to Scotland's rural regions.

Communities on the mainland and islands have hit out at camper van travellers entering scenic areas. Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park has urged people not to travel to it "after witnessing overwhelming numbers of visitors" across the protected region on Saturday, while Stirling Council has closed car parks in Callander and Balmaha in response to a weekend "influx" of visitors.

Ferries have been told not to accept "non-essential" travellers and the operators of the hugely popular North Coast 500 touring route have urged people not to visit.

The National: Margo PatersonMargo Paterson

Now Hostelling Scotland has announced the temporary closure of its entire 33-hotel network until further notice.

In a normal year, it welcomes more than 340,000 guests and turns over £9 million.

Chief Executive Margo Paterson said: “It is with great sadness that we have had to temporarily close our Youth Hostel network until further notice. 

"However, the health, safety and wellbeing of our people and guests along with protecting the communities in which we all live and work is our utmost priority at this time.   

“The current situation is difficult for everyone and if ever there was a time for communicating with mutual understanding, this is it."

She went on: "We really appreciate the hard work being carried out by all healthcare workers and those on the front line, looking after people and keeping us safe. Although our hostels are closing, we shall be talking with the NHS and other public services to see how best our hostels can support essential services."

Paterson said it "gives heart and hope to hear messages of support and to know that so many people have plans to explore this beautiful country of ours and to stay in our Youth Hostels in the future". 

She continued: “When we all start travelling again, we will be here for you and ready to provide the warm welcome you’ve come to expect from our organisation. Please stay well and look after one another.  

“We look forward to welcoming you again very soon.”