A popular Kent food market chain has revealed it plans to reopen a town centre branch.

Macknade's site in Elwick Place, Ashford, closed on March 26 but, two months on, owner Stefano Cuomo has announced it will be welcoming customers again "in early June".

The closure due to the coronavirus pandemic came just over a month after its opening, which sparked a wave of interest in the town.

Despite its retail and restaurant facilities having been shut, a Macknade delivery service has been set up over the last couple of months.

In a message published on the firm's Facebook page, Mr Cuomo said: "We are excited to announce that we are re-opening our Elwick Place store in early June.

"This will initially be for retail only, with an extended range of items available including fruit & vegetables, fresh meat, cheese, charcuterie, wine & beer... and all your everyday staples.

"Please be assured that your safety is our no.1 priority and we are taking several steps to ensure you feel comfortable shopping with us.

"Much like our Faversham Food Hall, we will be limiting the number of customers in-store and encouraging contactless payment wherever possible.

"The look & feel of the space is slightly different to the pre-COVID world, but this by no means impacts the Macknade experience you've come to know & love.

"Thank you for all your patience & support."

The Faversham site has already reopened, with social distancing and renewed hygiene measures in place.

A number of measures have been unveiled for the Elwick Place branch, including a cap on the number of customers allowed into the shop at any one time.

Staff will be given hand sanitiser, masks and gloves, as well as daily Covid-19 briefings.

Floor signage, an amended lay out and the promotion of contactless payments will also be employed to lower the risk of spreading infection.

For a full list of Macknade's Covid-19 alterations, click here.

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