Central England Co-op - with stores in Coalville and Ibstock - will close its shops on Boxing Day this year to give its colleagues more time to enjoy Christmas with their loved ones

The decision has been made in recognition of the extraordinary efforts of its colleagues over the last 18 months

This follows the retailer rewarding all of its colleagues with an extra day off in recognition of their role in Central England Co-op being named Leading Co-op of the Year earlier this year

The retailer hopes that by keeping stores closed on Boxing Day more colleagues can benefit from having a longer break from work and be able to travel and spend extra time with family and friends over the festive period.

Central England Co-op Chief Executive Debbie Robinson said: "We want to create a sustainable Society for all and that starts with our colleagues, who have worked tirelessly in these extraordinary times to sustain the wellbeing and safety of our members, customers and communities.

"Christmas is a really special time for so many and perhaps even more so this year after we missed out on celebrating the season in the way we wanted last year due to lockdown restrictions.

"In recognition of this and in appreciation of everything our retail colleagues have done during the uncertain times of the last 18 months, we will be closing the vast majority of our food stores on Boxing Day.

"This will allow our colleagues to have a weekend of festive fun with their families and friends and to have a well-deserved break. I want to thank our customers and members in advance for their understanding."

Central England Co-op's six 24-hour Petrol Filling Stations which will remain open to serve their communities and to keep customers and members moving across the festive period.

As a further thank you, all Central England Co-op's over 7,800 colleagues will be able to enjoy double discount in the retailer's stores from November 1 until January 8, as well as an additional £25 gift added to their membership cards to use in store.