B&Q reopens 14 stores but Wakefield and Castleford will remain closed

The DIY retailer has decided to reopen a selection of shops after having "watched other essential retailers support social distancing measures".

Over the past few weeks, shoppers have only been able to order products via click and collect.

However, B&Q say they are now in a position to allow shoppers back in some stores with social distancing measures in place.

A B&Q spokesperson said: "As an essential retailer, we’ve watched other essential retailers support social distancing in their stores and are in a position to follow best practice and re-open a small number of our stores as a trial, while keeping our colleagues and customers safe.

"At these 14 trial stores, we’ve introduced social distancing controls, similar to shopping at a supermarket.

"We’re strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time, and so customers may need to queue before entering the store.

"To help remind everyone to respect each other’s personal space, we have two metre floor markers throughout these stores and also perspex screens at the checkouts.

"Before making any decisions about re-opening more stores, including B&Q Castleford, we’ll be reviewing our trial.

"We continue to urge all customers to follow the Government’s social distancing guidelines and to shop responsibly only for what is necessary."

The full list of reopened B&Q stores:

• Paisley

• West Thurrock

• Culverhouse Cross in Cardiff

• Chester

• Brandon Road in Coventry

• Fareham

• Gillingham

• Ipswich

• Nursling

• Plymouth

• Stockport

• Sutton in Ashfield

• Watford

• Hull Road in York