The WHSmith store in Aberystwyth will remain open as the coronavirus crisis intensifies, the company has told the Cambrian News.

The store on Terrace Road also houses the town’s Post Office after it moved from its previous home on Great Darkgate Street two years ago despite heavy protests.

A spokesperson for WHSmith told the Cambrian News this morning that the store is open today and would remain so, despite the company shutting 60 per cent of its stores across the UK in response to the ongoing pandemic.

A company spokesperson said: “Further to the Prime Minister’s most recent announcement, we are closing all stores apart from those designated essential by the government.

“At this critical time, WHSmith will continue to provide vital Post Office services for customers to access key postal and banking services; food and drinks to NHS staff from our hospital stores, and a convenience offer in key small towns and travel locations where communities rely on our smaller newsagent services.

“About 40 per cent of our UK store portfolio is remaining open to provide customers with these important services.

“We are very proud of all our colleagues across our stores who are doing an outstanding job in continuing to serve our customers and communities.

“Our key priority is their health and wellbeing and we have a number of strict measures in place to keep everyone safe and supported.

“Given the fast evolving situation, our stores will be under constant review and we will support our colleagues through this difficult time.”