CALLS are being made for more supermarkets in the county to start initiatives to help the elderly.

Iceland in Eign Street, Hereford is one supermarket to announce it will open for just for elderly customers for two hours on Wednesday morning, a Leominster woman says more supermarkets should follow suit.

Iceland's store manager said elderly people will be welcome to shop between 8am and 10am on Wednesday, with the initiative continuing until the situation changes.

An Iceland spokesperson said the idea, which was started by a store in Northern Ireland, will be good for the communities stores serve.

“The impact of Covid-19 continues to disrupt routines for many people and businesses, and there is widespread concern about access to food, especially for vulnerable people and the elderly," they said.

"With many of our Iceland stores located at the heart of communities across the UK, we are encouraging our store managers to dedicate the first two hours of opening on Wednesday morning to the elderly (those of state pension age) and vulnerable people in their community, such as those with disabilities."

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But despite Iceland's move Adrienne Boxhall said more stores should do the same as shops will have been cleaned before they open each day, it’s the perfect time to allow pensioners to shop.

She added: “The supermarkets are manic at the moment and it is okay for those that can afford to bulk buy, but a lot of pensioners shop week-to-week as they do not have the money.

“Because of this they are finding empty shelves on essentials.”

Earlier this week supermarkets issued a joint statement urging customers to stop panic buying.

It comes as scores of shoppers have been panic-buying essentials as fears intensify over the spread of Covid-19.

Retailers are currently working “round the clock” to help customers get the items they need, the British Retail Consortium said.

The letter said: “We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19).

“We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.

“We understand your concerns, but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others will be left without.

“There is enough for everyone if we all work together.”