Watch: Long queues outside B&Q as stores start to reopen across Scotland

Hundreds of people have been filmed queuing up outside a B&Q the day some of the stores reopened during lockdown.

Hundreds of people have been filmed queuing up outside a B&Q the day some of the stores reopened during the coronavirus lockdown.

Footage shows a long line of people waiting, two metres apart, outside one of the DIY shops in Paisley.

Since closing in March, customers have only been able to use click and collect services.

The store chain has trialled opening a few stores across the UK today and has implemented a number of safety measures to ensure shoppers can browse in a way that follows the current social distancing rules.

The company’s rules include restricting the amount of customers in a store at any one given time and reminding those inside to respect personal space.

Despite their efforts, some Scots are shocked by B&Q’s decision.

One twitter use said: “Disgusting scenes at your Paisley store.

Footage shows a long line of people waiting, two metres apart, outside one of the DIY stores in Paisley.

“Massive queues.

“I get your not forcing people to come however being open is surely encouraging it. Be sensible and close your doors.”

Another person commented on social media saying the company was being “greedy” and there was “ no need for it to be open.”

A B&Q spokeswoman said: "As an essential retailer, we’ve watched other essential retailers support social distancing in their stores and are now in a position to follow best practice and re-open a small number of our stores as a trial, while keeping our colleagues and customers safe.

"Similar to shopping at a supermarket, we’ve introduced social distancing controls at these re-opened stores. We’re strictly limiting the number of customers in store at any one time, and so customers may need to queue before entering the store. To help remind everyone to respect each other’s personal space, we have two metre floor markers throughout these stores and also perspex screens at the checkouts.

"At these stores, customers will be able to buy only products that are available to shop and takeaway on the day. Services such as kitchen and bathroom design, paint mixing, timber cutting and key cutting are not available for the time being. We will also only be accepting only card and contact-less payments.

"All our other stores remain closed and continue to offer a contact-free collection service for Click+Collect orders at diy.com. Customers can also place orders for home delivery at diy.com too.

"We’re urging all customers to follow the Government’s social distancing guidelines and to shop responsibly only for what is necessary."