Value retailer QD – QualityDiscounts.com has confirmed that its store in Rutland and other locations will temporarily close as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak.

However, online sales will remain available.

The outlets will close with effect from this evening (Monday March 30).

Group chief executive, Nick Rubins, said: "We would like to thank our amazing staff who have done an incredible job in providing our communities with the products they needed, when they needed them most.

"We have supplied hundreds of thousands of toilet rolls, food galore from pasta to strawberry jam, pet food for our four-legged friends and countless bottles of cleaning products!

"However, it has come to a point where the wellbeing of our colleagues and customers is more important than anything else. As the Covid-19 infection rates multiply and the strain on the NHS increases, it is with a heavy heart that we have made the very difficult decision to temporarily close all of our stores, despite our classification as an essential retailer.

He continued: "We would like to say a big thank you to everyone at the QD Group who have been outstanding during this exceptionally tough time and to each and every one of our customers for their continued support. We will be back serving our communities as soon as we safely can!"

Whilst the stores are closed, the QD Group will continue to provide customers' favourite products online and deliver them safely to their door. The online shopping portal is at www.QualityDiscounts.com.

Nick Rubins added: "Please take care of each other and stay healthy and, most importantly of all, if you can, Stay Home, Save Lives."