Greggs has announced that it will close shops around the country, including in the North East, on the day of the Queen's funeral so staff can have the bank holiday off.

The Newcastle-based chain confirmed it will shut on Monday, September 19 – making the decision to allow the staff to pay their respects.

In a message posted on its social media pages, Greggs wrote: "To give our colleagues the opportunity to pay their respects to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, Greggs shops will be closed on Monday 19th September.

Read more: McDonald's shares it will be shutting all venues until 5pm on day of Queen's funeral

"A small number of our shops, operated by our franchise partners, may remain open. Thanks for your understanding."

Stores operated by Greggs - like typical high street branches - will mostly be closed. The ones that may remain open are run by franchise partners and include Greggs sites at Moto service stations and Euro Garage petrol stations.

Greggs' announcement follows McDonald's, who also confirmed it will mostly shut for the Queen's funeral. Newcastle department store Fenwick is also among the businesses that will close.

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