Traffic backing up 'as far as junction 4' of M55 as shoppers queue for Tesco in Blackpool

Police warned motorists to avoid Preston New Road in Blackpool "unless absolutely essential" as traffic had been building up as far as junction 4 of the M55 this morning (March 22).

The congestion is due to shoppers trying to get to Tesco on Clifton Retail Park today (March 22), according to police.

A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "Traffic on Preston New Road at Blackpool is currently backing up as far as junction 4 of the M55 as shoppers are trying to get to Tesco on Clifton Retail Park prior to the store being open.

"Please consider avoiding the area unless absolutely essential."

Tesco is supporting NHS workers by introducing a ‘browsing hour’ from 9am to 10am before checkouts open.

From today, and every following Sunday, Tesco stores - except Express stores - will be offering this new initiative.

The UK government urged shoppers to stop stockpiling food and to think of others as panic-buying continues in response to the coronavirus crisis.

At a briefing on Saturday, Environment Secretary George Eustice urged people to "be responsible" when shopping and to "think of others."

"Buying more than you need means others may be left without," he said.

The head of the British Retail Consortium, Helen Dickinson, said: "There is plenty of food in the supply chain."

"The issue is around people and lorries" getting food onto shelves quick enough, she said.

People took to Twitter to express their concerns at the situation that was unfolding in Blackpool this morning.

One person said: "Madness! They should be getting in then out! Apparently the queue in Blackpool is up to the M55!

Another worried shopper stated: "It’s scary. I’m stood away from people in the queue but it’s irrelevant when people are squeezing in and literally touching to get products."

It is understood Mr Johnson will be speaking to the leading supermarket chains to see what the Government can do to ensure the shelves remain stocked and the supply chains can cope with the demand.

The Road Haulage Association has also welcomed an announcement by the Department of Transport to relax the working hours for drivers for a month from March 23 until April 21.

Tesco, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's and Asda have announced a golden shopping hour for NHS and social care workers, so they can join older and vulnerable shoppers in having less competition for restocked shelves.