BAKERY chain Greggs has permanently closed one of its branches in Hereford.

A to let sign had appeared in the window of the store in Belmont Road, with the chain originally closing all its branches from March 24 in a bid to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Most branches, including those in Commercial Street and Broad Street in Hereford, have opened their doors again, but a spokesperson said Belmont Road would not be reopening.

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“We can confirm that sadly our Hereford Belmont Road shop will not be reopening," they said.

"A full list of our shops in the local area can be found by using our shop finder which is available at greggs.co.uk.”

Greggs had planned to have the majority of its stores open again by early July, with stores introducing floor markings, protective clothes for staff and screens at counters among several measures to protect against coronavirus spreading.

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There has also been a reduced menu to ensure social distancing in kitchens and workspaces.

Greggs had been allowed to stay open throughout the lockdown, offering takeaway and delivery services, but bosses declined, saying it felt remaining open would compromise the safety of its employees.

Longer term, the company said on June 16 it had temporarily suspended its new shop opening plans, beyond those legally committed to, with just 10 new sites expected.

Greggs has also spoken to landlords with a “variety of proposals in return for rent reductions” and will switch to monthly payments from June, following a full quarterly rent payment in March.

Chief executive Roger Whiteside said the chain was confident of its ability to "adapt to market conditions in the short term while continuing to invest in the long-term growth" of the business.