Marks and Spencer denies claims staff and customers were at Covid-19 risk at Galashiels outlet

The Southern was contacted by a source at M&S on Gala Water Retail Park expressing concern over the way a positive Covid-19 case had been handled in the foodhall.

They claimed a member of staff “attended work on at least two days knowing fine well they were showing signs of covid”.

The source added: “This staff member was openly telling people, subsequently they have now tested positive but there has been no statement released by M&S.

“The said staff member’s line manager has been displaying symptoms and was attending work and has so far not had even had a test. Why then has M&S not closed or at least deep cleaned the store before this gets out of hand? We are deeply concerned that M&S are not being forthwith with the information.”

In response a spokesperson for M&S said: “The health and wellbeing of our colleagues and customers always comes first. Any colleague that tests positive for Covid-19, or who has been in close contact with a colleague who tests positive, is supported to self-isolate straight away.

"As well as working with NHS Test and Trace, and the Protect Scotland app, we have our own robust contact tracing system to ensure that we reach all relevant colleagues. We also carry out a deep clean of the store as a precaution. We are confident that our Galashiels store is following all proper procedures and Scottish government regulations.”