Watch as large queues form outside Derbyshire garden centre

Large queues have formed at a north Derbyshire garden centre after it reopened its doors following an easing of lockdown restrictions.
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Dobbies garden centre, at Barlborough, reopened on Wednesday and garden enthusiasts flocked to the site just off the M1 and A619.

Dobbies, which has 54 stores in England, says the safety of staff and customers remains its ‘number one priority’ and social distancing measures are in place.

Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.
Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.
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There will be a limited number of customers permitted in the store at one time and a queuing system will be in operation outside the store.

Protective screens have been installed at tills and customers will be asked to pay with card or contactless, where possible. Bosses say PPE (personal protective equipment) will be provided for all staff at stores across the country.

Hand sanitising and trolley cleaning stations will be available at the store entrance.

While the restaurants and soft plays will remain temporarily closed, Dobbies will offer a takeaway menu from today (Friday, May 15).

Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.
Queues outside Dobbies garden centre at Barlborough.
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Graeme Jenkins, chief executive of Dobbies, said: “We have taken care to ensure we are following guidance provided by the Government, British Retail Consortium and Horticultural Trade Association to reopen responsibly.

“Our team is well prepared, social distancing measures are in place and we look forward to welcoming customers back into our stores across Derbyshire and across England.

“I would like to thank our team members and customers for their understanding during these uncertain times.”