NORTHWICH market will remain open, but for essential supplies only, Cheshire West and Chester Council has confirmed.

All council-run markets in the borough will be open in line with government guidance, only for the purchase of essential food, groceries and pet food.

Northwich Market is open from 9am until 5pm on open Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, with the first hour currently reserved for NHS staff and vulnerable customers.

Cllr Richard Beacham, cabinet member for housing, regeneration and growth, said: “I would like to thank our market traders and staff.

“Markets have always been at the centre of our communities and now more than ever. 

“All seating areas are now closed and we are asking customers to remember to apply social distancing rules and remain two metres (three steps) 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.”

Cllr Beacham added that any anti-social or aggressive behaviour toward council staff or traders will not be tolerated, and that customers are asked to respect government guidelines and the difficulties market traders face at this difficult time.

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

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 council-run markets.

For a list of contact details, email: markets@cheshirewestanchester.gov.uk or call 01244 973040.

Priority will be given to the elderly and vulnerable.