IKEA is to close all stores from 6pm tomorrow (Friday, March 20).

The flatpack furniture store, which has a store at Lakeside, revealed the move on its website.

The company said it was a precaution in the fight against coronavirus.

Peter Jelkeby, Country Retail Manager and Chief Sustainability Officer, UK and Ireland, said: "These are extraordinary times and I know that, like all of us here at IKEA, many of you are concerned about coronavirus (COVID-19). Our thoughts are with all those affected and the people working tirelessly to care for them.

"We are guided in our decisions by the directions from the Government, by our global company direction and by our strong set of IKEA principles and values.

"The health and safety of our customers and co-workers across the UK and Ireland is our main priority, and so I wanted to share some of the things we are doing in our stores to keep our customers and co-workers safe and cared for.

"As a precautionary measure against the ongoing risk of COVID-19, we have decided that, at 6pm on Friday March 20, we will temporarily close all the IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland to customers.

"You will continue to be able to browse and purchase our range online or through the app, and have our products delivered directly to you.

"You will also be able to request a contact-free delivery if you prefer.

"For people with pre-booked kitchen planning appointments, we will be in touch to discuss virtual or remote planning options."