THE manager of a popular village convenience store has announced he is limited access for customers during the coronavirus pandemic 'for the safety and sanity' of his team.

Alex Sophianou, manager of the East Tilbury Co-op store, part of the Chelmsford Star Co-operative group, made the announcement this evening (Thursday, 26 March) and the move won instant support and approval from many villagers.

After what he described as a difficult day Mr Sophianou took to social media to say: "I wanted to share with you that as of tomorrow, for the safety and sanity of my team at the Co-op, I will be limiting the amount of customers instore to six at any one time.

"I haven't taken this decision lightly but I need to keep my team safe so that we can keep on serving you all. Thank you for your co-operation."

And the response to Mr Sophianou's announcement was universally approved by local residents who said they appreciated all the work carried out by staff at the store.

The mood was summed up by Stacie Sharp who said: "A very good choice for yourself and your staff who have been working so hard in such difficult times. Respect to all."

Another villager, Denise Lockie, added: " That's fantastic Alex - let's keep you and your staff safe and sane."

During today's trading some customers made life difficult for others, with one staff member commenting: "While we were trying to restock the aisles people still tried to gain access despite notices saying the aisle was shut."

She added: Just watching kids/adults coughing near me makes me so angry knowing I'm working there and risking my life. I do wonder if East Tilbury knows the meaning of 'essential'."

However, she took comfort from the overwhelming support for the store and its staff on social media, and welome for the new rules summed up by another shopper, Helen Taylor, who said: "Great to hear well done! The safety of everyone is crucial if we are going to beat this thing - your wonderful and lovely staff included of course."