TWO Poundland stores in the region have been named among those to come out of "hibernation" following months of closure.

The discount chain has confirmed it is starting to reopen its temporarily closed stores across the UK following Boris Johnson's announcement last night.

It said that from 8am on Friday, February 26, stores in the Metrocentre and at Middlesbrough's Captain Cook Square would reopen. 

The discount chain said it had kept the vast majority of stores open but temporarily closed a number due to a sharp fall in customer numbers.

It said that stores primarily closed in areas where nearby non-essential retailers had shut their doors due to restrictions.

Poundland retail director, Austin Cooke, said: “We’re proud to have kept most of our stores open serving our communities with the essentials they need, but in some places, we couldn’t stay open when so many of our neighbours were forced to close. 

“The roadmap is good news for retailers and our town centres which have such an important role to play in our recovery and our colleagues and customers will be delighted that we’re re-opening in these locations, and so are we.  

“Safety continues to be our first priority, and shoppers can return with confidence - we’re well versed in making our stores safe place to shop. We’re all looking forward to giving them a warm welcome as they return.” 

Poundland said more stores would be reopening in coming weeks.