DIY stores across the county remain open whilst many other stores have had to close after being advised to by the government,

Home and hardware stores were among shops which have been allowed to stay open during the lockdown.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published guidance on Monday night, after Prime Minister Boris Johnson ordered all non-essential businesses and premises to shut.

Retail and public premises that remain open must ensure a distance of two metres between customers and shop assistants and allow people to enter a shop only in small groups.

B&Q

B&Q released a statement on their website on Wednesday, March 25 to say they were limiting items available in their click and collect range.

They have also made changes to the way items are collected, which means items can be brought to your car.

Stores are closed to customers for browsing.

Homebase

Homebase have advised its customers to utilise its website first, but stores remain open.

A message from the company's chief executive Damian McGloughlin posted on the retailer's website said their stores which are not deemed essential - including Bathstores and Decorate by Homebase shops - have closed.

IKEA

IKEA stores in the UK closed on Friday, March 20, you can however order online and get good delivered.

Screwfix

Screwfix closed it's stores on Tuesday, March 24; it is offering click and collection zone at the front of its stores.

Home deliveries will also continue to be carried out, but they have advised this may be subject to delays and ranges may be limited during the coming weeks.

Their stores will be open between 8am and 4pm, Monday to Saturday, and between 9am and 4pm on Sundays for "existing essential click and collect orders only."

Wickes

Wickes' website was down this morning , although it is understood its stores were closed yesterday.

KentOnline contacted to seek further clarification and they said stores were closed as they were trading online only, with options set out for click and collect or delivery.

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