SUPERMARKETS have been using their own systems to encourage people to adhere to social-distancing guidelines announced by the Government.

In Liskeard, a queue of people with trolleys snaked around a car park as customers were allowed access on a ’one in one out’ basis.

The UK Government has shut down most shops and told people only to go shopping for essentials.

The measures have been introduced to try to prevent the spread of coronavirus. 

Some supermarkets are now offering an ’essentials’ box to order online and are prioritising the 1.5 million people in the UK who have been told to ’shield’ themselves at home for 12 weeks for medical reasons.

All shops and outlets classed as non-essential have been ordered to close. As well as most retail shops, the following are also closed: hair, beauty and nail salons, including piercing and tattoo parlours; massage parlours; auction houses; and car showrooms.

Outlets that are classed as essential and are remaining open include: supermarkets and other food shops; health shops; pharmacies including non-dispensing pharmacies; petrol stations; home and hardware shops; laundrettes and dry cleaners; bicycle shops; garages; car rentals; pet shops; cornershops; newsagents; post offices; and banks.

With the exception of market stallholders who offer essential produce, such as groceries and food, outdoor and indoor market traders are not allowed to operate.

Shops that remain open must: 

*Ensure a distance of two metres between customers and shop assistants

*Let people enter the shop only in small groups, to ensure that spaces are not crowded 

*Maintain queue control outside the premises. 

Takeaway and delivery services can remain open but must follow guidance on keeping staff and customers safe. 

Restaurants and cafes, including workplace canteens, are permitted to provide food delivery and takeaway services.

Also allowed to operate are cafes or canteens at hospitals, care homes or schools; prison and military canteens; and services providing food or drink to homeless people. 

Online retail operations will remain open and are being encouraged by the Government.