Centre:mk and intu remain open in Milton Keynes despite many top stores closing

The list of retailers that are now closed includes Primark, John Lewis, Apple, Topshop, H&M, Gap, Oasis and River Island, as well as all restaurants and coffee shops at the two centres.

But centre:mk director Kevin Duffy said the centre itself was staying open because a number of stores provide "critical support" at this time by selling medicines, health supplements, food and general household supplies

"In addition, a number of the restaurants are providing home delivery and takeaway services," he said,

Mr Duffy said the centre was trying to implement "as much calmness as possible" during the troubles times.

He added: "We continue to implement increased cleaning and security measures in line with government guidance, to keep you out of harm’s way as much as we possibly can.

"We have asked individual stores to update on their opening status and will try to provide an update each day across our social media channels but recognise this may be challenging in such a rapidly evolving situation. Finally, we are t while following government guidance, the latest of which I have included in the link below:

Intu is also staying open.

An intu spokesman said: "In light of the latest government advice and in consultation with our brands, we have adjusted the core hours that stores can operate within our centres. That means that individual retailers, restaurants and leisure facilities can reduce their opening hours if they wish, but the centres themselves will open and close at the usual time.

"We are focused on supporting the brands that operate in our centres by providing them with greater flexibility, whilst also serving our communities and ensuring people have access to important services and essential items. As individual opening times may vary, please check with the store before setting off."

The spokesman added: "Precautionary measures are in place across all our sites and we would encourage everyone to use the hand sanitisers and cleansing wipe stations that have been installed throughout our centres. We’re also deep cleaning high footfall areas much more regularly."

We’re following the official guidance very carefully and we’re doing everything we can to support our employees and the communities we serve."