KFC has re-opened some of its chicken shops despite the coronavirus lockdown.
The deadly pandemic has yet to peak in the UK but two of the fast-food favourite's Manchester branches are doing deliveries again, including free meals for NHS workers.
Restaurants in Deansgate and Hulme are operating with skeleton staff three weeks after the worldwide company's bosses said it was closing with immediate effect, reports the Manchester Evening News.
The decision came as the UK went into an effective lockdown, with the likes of competitor McDonald's doing the same, having initially being reduced to drive-thru only.
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A KFC spokesperson had said the closure was to "help protect the well-being and safety of our teams and of our guests".
With images of Brits flocking to beaches and joining other large gatherings, despite the Government advising strict social distancing measures, Prime Minister Boris Johnson had made the decision to lock the country down.
"It’s not a decision we’ve taken lightly, but it’s in the best interests of both our incredible teams and all the fans that love our chicken," KFC said at the time.
The two Manchester shops have, however, quietly re-opened with a limed menu.
A spokesperson said: “Over the last week, we’ve reopened our Deansgate and Hulme restaurants.
"They’re open for delivery only and are serving a limited menu, operated by fewer team members with new procedures in place to help ensure we’re following social distancing guidelines.
"There’s still a need for affordable, accessible food at this time - so we want to do our part.
"We’re also donating hundreds of meals from both restaurants to those on the frontline, including the NHS and key workers, in partnership with Deliveroo.”
It is unclear whether other UK branches will also be re-opening.
A photo appeared on Twitter yesterday of several Deliveroo drivers waiting outside KFC's Deansgate branch.
Keith Pierce wrote on the social media site: "My lad who lives in Manchester got a KFC delivered last night.
"I'm absolutely fuming, what I would give now for some fried chicken & gravy."
Johnny Clarke said: "Why is KFC open in Manchester and not Leeds?"
