Sports Direct are to close all their stores after facing a backlash over their original decision to stay open.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last night that all shops selling 'non-essentials' must be closed, but Sports Direct came out and said they are 'uniquely well placed to help keep the UK as fit and healthy as possible'.

But in a matter of hours the sports conglomerate have backtracked on their original statement and said they will close 'until we are given the go-ahead by the government'.

The U-turn comes after widespread criticism from, among others, Cabinet Office Minister Michael Gove, who condemned the decision, saying: "People can walk, run or cycle, they should, but there is no reason for a store like Sports Direct to remain open."

 "The key thing we need to do is make sure people wherever possible stay at home. 

"Yes it's important people exercise but that should be done once a day and it's a basic thing."

The list of shops which will remain open are:

• Supermarkets and other food shops
• Pharmacies
• Petrol stations
• Newsagents
• Bicycle shops
• Home and hardware stores
• Laundrettes and dry cleaners
• Garages
• Pet shops
• Post Offices
• Banks