Queues of up to five miles have been reported as Ikea reopened its first 19 branches across the Uk this morning.
The Swedish furniture chain has reopened with strict new social distancing measures after the Government change the lockdown rules.
Massive queues formed as home furnishings retailer Ikea opened its doors for the first time in months.
Samantha Fisher and her daughter Atlanta, from Groomsport, near Bangor in Co Down, queued from 8am.
They have a bedroom to furnish which has lain empty for weeks during the pandemic lockdown.
Ms Fisher said: “I wanted my dressing table.
“My room is empty because I did it up a few months ago and it is just a big space ready for it to go in.
“So that will be my husband’s job tonight, to build it and put it together.”
They also bought mirrors, blankets and outdoor furnishings.
Huge queues form at Ikea, Nottingham.
People were allowed into the cavernous store in small numbers from 9am.
Extra screens have been installed to protect staff.
Wipes were available at pay points.
Ms Fisher said: “Everybody was very helpful.”
She worked for Flybe and was made redundant at the start of March when the airline collapsed.
Her daughter was studying and said everything had been put on pause.
Ms Fisher said: “Things are starting to change a bit now, at least you are able to get out of the house and see your friends.
“I feel sorry for the young ones because they are missing all their friends.”
Branches have been closed since the end of March and shoppers couldn't wait to get back into the branches when they reopened this morning.
One person said on social media just after 10am this morning: "If you're in the 5 mile queue for IKEA then you're crazy (it goes past Nando's and loops around the car park!)"
IKEA has said: "To ensure a safe shopping experience we ask that if you can, please shop alone. Only bring one other person from the same household, if you need special assistance or if you need to bring your children with you.
"There will be a queuing system outside to manage entry into the store.
We’ll have co-workers and signage throughout the store to help you stick to social distancing guidelines."
