Currys PC World plans to extend its opening hours across the bulk of its UK stores, excluding Wales, to 8pm until November 5. Some larger-format stores will remain open until 10pm to deal with an expected surge in demand for home technology products before the second lockdown begins.

Currys PC World’s chief operating officer Mark Allsop said: “While we expect footfall to increase between now and Thursday, our extended opening hours will help ease the busy periods in store.

“From Thursday, we will support our customer tech needs through 24/7 online, ShopLive and Order & Collect. This means we are able to welcome customers into our stores until the full nationwide lockdown begins and continue to support them through November.”