Shops selling "non-essential" goods have been ordered to close as Boris Johnson took dramatic steps to combat the spread of Covid-19.

The draconian measures will be in place for at least three weeks and will also see the closure of libraries, playgrounds and outdoor gyms, and places of worship.

The Prime Minister said people should not be going shopping except for essentials such as food and medicine.

Although that meant that food retailers and pharmacies would remain open, Mr Johnson said people should limit shopping trips and use delivery services where possible.

In a sombre statement, Mr Johnson said: "To ensure compliance with the Government's instruction to stay at home, we will immediately close all shops selling non-essential goods,? including clothing and electronic stores and other premises including libraries, playgrounds and outdoor gyms, and places of worship."

A series of retailers had already announced they were closing their doors, including John Lewis and Primark.

The Prime Minister acknowledged the move would disrupt people's lives, businesses and jobs.

"I can assure you that we will keep these restrictions under constant review," he said.

"We will look again in three weeks, and relax them if the evidence shows we are able to.

"But at present there are just no easy options. The way ahead is hard, and it is still true that many lives will sadly be lost."

The closure of shops was part of a wider package of restrictions which will could see people fined by the police for breaking the new rules.