GALLERY: Eerie quiet amid coronavirus lockdown in the Black Country

But people were largely staying away following new strict advice from the Government on social distancing.

Only a fraction of the people who would usually be in town and city centres ventured out today.

City centre streets in Wolverhampton were quiet with many deciding to stay indoors.

Dudley Street and Queen Street were virtually empty, mirroring many neighbouring town centres.

In West Bromwich, New Square Shopping Centre official said it was closed apart from food retailers like Tesco and banks.

Shoppers had headed out to Walsall town centre albeit in far fewer numbers and police urged people to stay at home.

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It came despite some retailers refusing to heed advice from Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

The Government demanded all UK shops selling non-essential goods to close.

It has moved to clarify which stores could stay open after retailers such as Sports Direct initially opened today.

The government has ordered all UK shops selling non-essential goods to close.

They include:

• Supermarkets and other food shops

• Pharmacies

• Petrol stations

• Newsagents

• Bicycle shops

• Home and hardware stores

• Laundrettes and dry cleaners

• Garages

• Pet shops

• Post Offices

• Banks