Marks & Spencer has announced specific shopping hours for all NHS staff and vulnerable shoppers following the ongoing Covid-19 outbreak.

The retailer will open its doors specifically to older and more at-risk shoppers for the first hour of trading on Monday’s and Thursday’s at all of its stores.

This will also apply to all NHS staff and emergency services workers, but this will take place during the opening hour of Tuesday and Friday’s.

As retailers struggle with an increase in demand, M&S says it is extending temporary purchasing restrictions to two items per customer to frozen foods, groceries and eggs.

In a statement, the retailer said: “Like all retailers, M&S is working tirelessly across its stores, supply chain and support centres to deliver for its customers. Over the coming weeks, M&S will continue looking at ways to support its customers, colleagues and communities during this exceptional time.”