All B&Q branches across Kent have now reopened after they were classed as "essential".

Last week, the DIY chain decided to bring six branches back into business after watching “other essential retailers support social distancing measures”.

The firm opened stores in Gillingham, Ashford, Dartford, Dover, Gravesend and Tunbridge Wells.

But now five more branches in Kent are welcoming back customers.

These include Canterbury, Margate, Larkfield, Maidstone and Whitstable.

A statement from the company said: "We’re re-opening our stores to help you repair and maintain your houses and gardens while staying at home. It’s important you can shop safely and so we've been busy making sure we have strict social distancing measures in place to keep you and our colleagues safe.

"This includes sanitiser stations to ensure trolleys are good to go, safe queuing two metres apart before entering the store, two metre navigational markers on the floor to guide you through the store, perspex screens at our checkouts and contactless payments only.

"Unfortunately, our timber cutting, paint mixing and design appointments are temporarily unavailable.

"We’re asking shoppers to limit their shopping group to no more than two people, and not to bring under 16-year-olds shopping."

The firm has now opened more than half of its stores and plans to open our remaining stores, across the UK, by early May.

All stores are open from 8am to 5pm Monday to Saturday.

Opening times on Sundays vary, and so check the company's website for details of your local store.

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