Supermarket giant Morrisons has confirmed it will keep making immediate payments to its smaller suppliers until the end of January.

The immediate payments scheme was introduced shortly before lockdown in March and originally extended until June. It aims to support the big four supermarkets' network of farmers and small local producers through the coronavirus pandemic, as reported by Retail Gazette.

Morrisons, which has stores in Tewkesbury, Nailsworth, Gloucester and Cheltenham, said it wants to help provide stability to its suppliers, now that the UK is in a recession.

It will also extend the five per cent discount it offers to its farmers to thank them as they continue to help feed the nation.