BIG Issue vendors are to resume street sales next month, it has been announced.

Around 2,000 vendors will be back out selling the magazine across England and Wales from July 6 for the first time in 15 weeks because of the lockdown.

Street sales stopped on March 20, although the magazine had been available in supermarkets and other stores as well as through subscriptions, which has enabled the organisation to maintain financial and other help for vendors.

The organisation said it has set out a health and safety plan of action which ensures that vendors are able to sell the magazine safely and customers are able to buy with confidence.

The plan includes investment in personal protective equipment for vendors, and contactless card payments.

Big Issue founder Lord John Bird said: "Since the end of March, we've been going all-out to completely change, and save, the Big Issue during the Covid-19 crisis.

"Our utmost priority has always been the safety and wellbeing of our vendors.

"We are pleased to be working towards being back out selling on Monday, July 6, with a firm plan in place that gives peace of mind to readers and vendors alike.

"We can't wait to be back. Our vendors are looking forward to getting back to selling the magazine to our fantastic customers who they have missed throughout the lockdown."