Wanstead Market was told to close by Redbridge Council after residents raised concerns over social distancing.

Many were surprised to see the market in High Street, Wanstead, still open on Sunday (April 5) despite the current lockdown.

While infrequent shopping for food is permitted, Redbridge Council responded to a number of complaints by asking the market to close early and remain closed indefinitely.

One resident, Amanda, tweeted: “Most people don’t class artisan bread, honey, organic sausages, etc as essentials.

“The Government has put strict guidelines in place as to what people should be doing. Meandering through a market isn’t one of them.

“The high street is too busy as it is with several key businesses.”

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Another, Ashley Manoff, added: “How can the market be allowed to trade? This is a joke, we will end up in full lockdown."

The council yesterday asked the market to close at 1pm after hearing from a number of concerned residents.

A Redbridge Council spokesperson said: “Following the concerns raised yesterday, the market management was approached and advised to shut down at 1pm.

“The provider has also been advised that no further markets will be permitted during the current Covid-19 restrictions.”

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