RETAILER B&Q has reopened its Blackburn and Nelson stores.

B&Q initially closed stores all of its 297 stores across the country for a temporary period amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Some opened earlier this week with strict social distancing measures and another tranche have now been opened too.

Graham Bell, B&Q CEO, said: "During this time of self-isolation and social distancing, we're all learning new ways of living and shopping; we've watched how other essential retailers have supported social distancing in their stores and followed their best practice with trials at 14 stores.

"Following the success of the trials, with customers adhering to our social distancing measures, we've now opened over half of our stores. We're confident that our strict social distancing measures keep customers and colleagues safe while helping homes and gardens, as well as people's wellbeing, to be maintained.

"Whether shopping in our stores or online, we ask that all our customers follow the Government's social distancing guidelines and shop responsibly only for what is necessary."