Gardening and hardware retailers have been ordered to close for the duration of lockdown.

Hardware and building suppliers can remain open for trade customers and they can offer a click-and-collect service.

Matthew Brindley, a self-employed landscape gardener, told the Manx Independent: ’I was rather frustrated and annoyed because I have work to catch up on and I really can avoid close contact with people in my job. I understand that other businesses will have more employees and agree with the need for the lockdown and the restrictions implemented.’

’There has been little if any guidance concerning my area of employment.’

Other retail businesses not considered essential are: Electronic shops, book shops, jewellers, gift shops, stationery/home office equipment suppliers, charity shops, furniture and homeware shops, clothes shops, sporting equipment shops and florists.