A CO-OP food shop in Worcester has temporarily closed, with staff moved to busier stores to help meet demand during the coronavirus pandemic.

The store in Henwick Road, St John's has shut.

“These are unprecedented times," a Co-op spokesman said. "We are committed to serving our communities and we have had to make difficult decisions so that we can keep our colleagues safe, maintain stock levels and continue to serve our customers and members.

“This means we have temporarily closed our Henwick Road store with resources, colleagues, stock and supplies moving to our busiest stores. This also enables Co-op to streamline its deliveries and replenish shelves as quickly as possible.

“Co-op has an alternative store nearby in St John's, just a few minutes walk away from Henwick Road.

"We thank our customers for their support and understanding as we work to serve them during this difficult time.

“We will open this store again as soon as we can, and we thank our customers for their support as we all pull together at this difficult time.”

Meanwhile, thousands of protective screens are to be installed at Co-op supermarkets across the UK along with more gloves and hand sanitisers for staff.

Co-op Food CEO Jo Whitfield, who referred to shopworkers as “local heroes,” has urged shoppers to show kindness and patience for each other and colleagues.

The retail giant has invested over £3million on new protective equipment for workers.