Twelve supermarket chains have come together to release a joint statement urging customers not to panic buy amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Tesco, Sainsbury's, Marks and Spencer, Co-op, Asda, Waitrose, Morrisons, Iceland, Aldi, Lidl, Costcutter and Ocado have seen a surge of people buying high quantities of items more cases of Covid-19 are confirmed.

Customers have been seen buying bulks of toilet rolls, pasta, tinned food and hand sanitisers in particular more people plan to self-isolate to prevent the virus from spreading.

As of 9am on Saturday, March 14, a total of 1,140 people have been tested positive for coronavirus and 21 people have died.

Stores have been introducing limits to customers on particular items of how many they can purchase at a time to ensure to prevent stock shortages.

The full statement reads:

"We know that many of you are worried about the spread of coronavirus (Covid-19). We want to let you know that we are doing everything we can so that you and your families have the food and essentials you need.

"We are working closely with Government and our suppliers to keep food moving quickly through the system and making more deliveries to our stores to ensure our shelves are stocked.

“Those of us with online delivery and click-and-collect services are running them at full capacity to help you get the products when you need them.

"We thank all our colleagues in stores and supply chains who are working day and night to keep the nation fed. But we need your help too.

"We would ask everyone to be considerate in the way they shop.

“We understand your concerns but buying more than is needed can sometimes mean that others are left without. There is enough for everyone if we all work together.

"Together we can make sure we are looking out for family, friends, neighbours.

“Together we will care for those around us and those who are elderly, vulnerable or choosing to remain at home.

"We are doing all we can to rise to this challenge. Serving you and keeping you and everyone who works with us safe will always be our priority."