POUNDBAKERY is set to reopen its doors this week after being closed for months.

In a post on social media, the bakery chain has announced that all of its stores are getting set to welcome back customers from Friday, June 5.

The chain – which has stores in Ellesmere Port, in Chester’s Foregate and on Chester’s Bridge Street – will operate on a reduced hours schedule to begin with.

A spokesman said: “We will be serving the vast majority of our range, plus a lot of customers have told us that they are missing our breakfast especially, so we will be serving breakfast all day in our shops for the first few days of opening.

“In response to the current situation regarding the COVID-19 virus in the UK, here at Poundbakery, while we have been closed, we have reviewed our existing cleaning and sanitising procedures in order to ensure that we are doing all we can to protect our staff and customers and restrict any potential spread of the virus.”

The spokesman adds that all shops have been deep cleaned and will continue to be cleaned and sanitised daily.

Staff will also be equipped with the relevant PPE in addition to washing and sanitising hands regularly.

The spokesman continued: “Despite these precautions, there remain an element of risk. To reduce this risk, we kindly request that our customers take personal responsibility for themselves and do not visit if they are showing any symptoms of the virus (a new persistent cough or fever).

“We have provided hand sanitising points at the entrance of our shops and put in place clear floor directions to follow to ensure 2m distance is maintained – to protect you, other customers and our staff.

“One of the main long-term problem for local people, jobs and businesses is if people stop going out altogether. Please, if you’re not showing symptoms and are well, please do continue to support ours and other regional businesses as best you can.”

The chain will review these updated procedures daily and look to keep customers informed via social media.