Retailers report a sense of calm in shops and supermarkets on Day One of Lock Down.

Measures put in place by large food retailers, along with sensible and respectful behaviour from shoppers, resulted in a calm experience for those buying their essentials yesterday morning.

On the first day of the new strict measures on staying at home and away from others, the island’s main food retailers all reported positively about efforts by staff and customers to maintain social distancing. Measures in place include queuing systems to get into stores to ensure customer numbers inside are kept low enough for social distancing.

While some product lines were light, the general feedback from retailers was that stocks remained good, with further deliveries due later. The island’s supply chain remains strong.

Police Officers were patrolling this morning providing reassurance and advice, including visiting supermarkets, and feedback was that people were in good spirits and adhering to the new rules.

Deputy Gavin St Pier, Chair of the Civil Contingencies Authority, said: ‘There has been a marked change in behaviours since the weekend and the whole community should be thanked for that. We have been and remain in close contact with food retailers and I thank them for the measures they have put in place to ensure that social distancing between their customers and staff is maintained wherever possible.

‘We must now all maintain this modified behaviour as we progress through this initial 14-day period of new strict measures about staying at home and away from others. Our ability to import essential goods remains secure and retailers continue to have access to the stocks the island needs. We all just need continue to act with courtesy, patience and responsibility in not buying more than we need.’