A QUEUE of around one hundred people were spotted outside a Gwynedd Tesco store before it had even opened on Sunday morning - amid fears over coronavirus panic buying.

Shoppers were said to have arrived at least an hour before the store in Bangor opened.

Becca Evans took the picture above at around 9.30am.

She said: "Just got to Tesco bangor to get cash out and people are actually queuing up for it to open. Absolutely mental."

There have been similar scenes at supermarkets across the UK as concerns grow over the disruption caused by Covid-19.

The queue at Bangor's Tesco store came on the same day that all major supermarkets issued a joint-statement urging customers to "be considerate".

Many stores have now introduced restrictions on ‘essential' items and Tesco customers can’t buy more than five of the same items.

This includes antibacterial gels, wipes and sprays, dry pasta, UHT milk and some tinned vegetables.

The full statement reads: "To our customers. We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronaviurs (Covid-19). We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have food and essential you need.

"We are working closely with Government and our suppliers to keep food moving quickly through the system and making more deliveries to our stores to ensure our shelves are stocked. Those of us with online delivery and click-and-collect services are running at full capacity to help you get the products you need when you need them.

"We thank all our colleges in stores and supply chains who are working day and night to keep the nation fed.

"We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop. We understand your concern but buying more than is necessary can sometimes mean that others will be left without. There is enough for everyone is we all work together.

"Together we can make sure we are all looking out for family, friends, neighbours. Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable, or choosing to remain at home.

"We are doing all we can to rise to this challenge. Servicing you and keeping you and everyone who works with us safe will always be our priority."