An Ayrshire restaurant has defended its decision to open on the day of the Queen's funeral.
After a minor backlash from their choice to remain open yesterday, Tempura responded to some of the criticism levelled at them.
The Ayr venue said it respected the views of those who disagreed with their decision to remain open but urged those being 'horrible' to stop following them on social media
The vast majority of hospitality businesses — including pubs and restaurants — remained open yesterday while retail, supermarkets and other sectors closed or operated reduced hours to allow staff to pay their respects to the late monarch.
Tempura kept their Ayr venues open on Monday, along with their newly opened Kilmarnock takeaway.
When they announced they'd be staying open one person wrote: "Am sure a couple of hours wouldn't have done much harm.
"I admire every business that are showing respect, public holiday was granted. Only yous will know whether staying open is a must or not."
While another said: "So sad to hear this! A couple of hours to show respect would not have killed you and would allow staff who wanted to to pay respect and watch the funeral!"
But the negative comments were outstripped by those who backed the restaurant's call.
One person said: "I’m sure there will be many people who don’t want to stay home alone who will be delighted to be in company.
"I think people also need to realise that a small business can’t afford the same luxuries as a larger companies."
Another added: "You're doing exactly the right thing. Hospitality venues are struggling like crazy right now with increased costs coming from all angles.
"It is entirely the right thing to do to remain open if you have staff who depend on a days trade to pay their wages.
"Anyone who wishes to mourn the Queen's passing is perfectly entitled to stay at home and do so.
"Those who prefer to realise that the world keeps spinning and bills still need paid are being treated like hardcore republicans and social pariahs."
Tempura bosses responded to the debate in a post late on Sunday night.
At the heart of their decision was the duty to look after their 40 members of staff, they wrote.
They posted: "Wow, didn’t expect such a massive response about remaining opening tomorrow [Monday].
"The massive majority supporting our decision as a business and we thank you for understanding why. For the few that disagree we are ok with that and we respect your views.
"We do however ask that your response is decent and tasteful and if you want to be horrible then please unfollow our page.
"The decision was taken purely on looking after our 40 staff.
"We made the decision to stay open to ensure we do right by our staff and they are the most important people to us."
It's estimated that billions around the world tuned in to watch the Queen's funeral service at Westminster Abbey.
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