CHESHIRE West and Chester Council has confirmed that all council-run markets in the borough, including Winsford and Northwich Markets, are currently open in line with government guidance, only for the purchase of essential food, groceries and pet food.

Markets are open from 9am until 5pm (Chester Market and Ellesmere Market open at 8am), with the first hour reserved for NHS staff and vulnerable customers.

A food and grocery delivery service is available; traders can be contacted directly to arrange orders, collection and delivery wherever possible.

For a list of contact details email markets@cheshirewestanchester.gov.uk or call 01244 973040. Priority will be given to the elderly and vulnerable.

Councillor Richard Beacham said: “Since starting their new delivery service last Thursday, market staff have helped to facilitate over 380 community deliveries of food via market traders across all our markets.

“All seating areas are now closed, and we are asking customers to remember to apply social distancing rules and remain two metres away from other people.

“Further guidance will be available at each market and we have stewards and floor tape to help customers with distancing.

“Please be a considerate shopper and not bulk buy so that food supplies continue to be available for the whole community.

“Any anti-social or aggressive behaviour toward council staff or traders will not be tolerated and customers are asked to respect government guidelines and the difficulties market traders face at this difficult time.”