A cyber attack has hit more than 300 Spar convenience stores across the north of England,

The attack targeted James Hall & Company in Preston, Lancashire, which operates Spar’s tills and IT systems.

Some shops were closed. Others opened but were not able to take card payments with those remaining open taking cash only.

The National Cyber Security Centre and Lancashire Police said they were both investigating.

A spokesman for the former said: “We are aware of an issue affecting Spar stores and are working with partners to fully understand the incident.”

A spokesman said: “We are working to resolve this situation as quickly as possible.

“We apologise for James Hall confirmed they had been hit by a Ransomware attack.

No information has been disclosed about how much money the scammers are demanding, but a high profile incident on 300 stores highlights the need for companies to be ever more vigilant.

It is important that companies plan ahead for such incidents.