Central England Co-op in Coalville has sent out a 'Thank you for helping us keep our communities safe' to customers ahead of roll-out of new Covid-19 restrictions.

The retailer thanked customers and members for their support during the past six months in adhering to a wide range of measures put in place to keep customers and colleagues safe while ensuring everyone has access to vital food and essentials.

Now, with the announcement of new Government restrictions to fight the pandemic, people are being asked to continue to work with Coalville's Central England Co-ops to 'keep our communities safe'.

New guidance means it is now mandatory for shopworkers to wear face coverings at all times, a stance the retailer has had in place since July as part of its ongoing work in leading the way to ensure everyone plays their part in staying safe and healthy.

Debbie Robinson, Central England Co-op Chief Executive, said: "Nothing is more important to us all at Central England Cooperative than the health and safety of our colleagues and customers.

"We want to say a big thank you to our customers for working with us when it comes to keeping our colleagues, customers and communities safe by adhering to all these changes. We must continue this good work throughout the coming winter months."

The range of measures in place at Central England Co-op sites, which have been very well received by customers, include:

On entering the shop:

• Prominent markings installed outside stores so customers queuing to enter maintain safe distances of two-metres, as well as messages asking those customers who may have symptoms of Covid-19 not to enter the store.

• Permanent hand sanitiser stations at the front of all stores and a one-way system in place permanently

While shopping:

• Specialist cleaning products are used to regularly wipe down the countertops and chip and pin machines, ATMs, baskets and trolleys

•Clear markings installed throughout stores to communicate two-metre spacing. Customers are asked to maintain these distances while shopping and this is repeated frequently via in-store radio messaging

At point of payment:

• Special markings installed to showcase two-metre safe distances while queueing

• Team members are using every other till point or checkout to keep both customers and colleagues a safe distance apart

• Special markings installed in front of till points and checkouts of at least one metre. If a customer needs to enter this area to place down a basket or use the keypad, colleagues move backwards to maintain a safe distance

• Customers are asked to pay with card or contactless if possible

• Over 1,000 plastic screens at till points and 7,000 face visors issued to staff.