Ikea stores across the UK reopened their doors to customers today. 

The Swedish furniture giant closed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic but welcomed back customers this morning.  

Shoppers faced estimated queues of between half an hour and one hour outside Ikea's Warrington base – although it was reportedly even busier earlier this morning, with customers queueing from 8am.

There were long delays for drivers on the roads around the Gemini Retail Park store as a result, with few spaces to be found in the car park.

The Bolton News:

Several cars were seen turning around and leaving the area due to the length of the tailbacks.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible.

The Ikea store in Ashton-under-Lyne, Manchester, also reopened with long queues reported.

The Bolton News:

Stores are reopening with strict social distancing measures in place.

These include card payments only, increased cleaning regimes and advice to shop alone if possible.

And its instore restaurants, creches and play areas remain closed at the present time.

Current opening hours are 10am to 8pm from Monday to Saturday and 11am to 5pm on Sundays.

The Bolton News:

A spokesman said: "The safety of our customers and coworkers remains the highest priority, so we have been working hard to welcome you back safely. ​

"We’ve introduced new measures so you can enjoy a safe and comfortable shopping experience.​

"So we hope to be saying a socially-distanced ‘hej’ to you soon."