SPAR stores are still closed across the region after an alleged cyber-attack brought down their IT systems.

Many customers are finding their local store closed for the sixth day in a row, after the attack left their till systems down.

More than 300 stores have been affected by the attack, although not all had to close.

Those that have remained open are only accepting cash payments due to credit and debit payments being unable to operate.

The attack targeted James Hall and Co, which runs Spar’s tills and IT system in the north of England. They have said that they are working 'round the clock' to get stores open and back online again.

They were, however, unable to discuss any stores in particular, nor were they in a position to give specific dates regarding the reopening of stores in the Cumbria region.

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

“It is currently impacting stores’ ability to process card payments meaning that a number of Spar stores are currently closed to shoppers or only taking cash payments."

SPAR UK also updated their customers on Twitter, saying: “Thank you for bearing with us while we work through this issue.

“Unfortunately we don’t have an update about when the stores will be reopening. Thank you for your patience through this difficult time.”

As some stores creep into their second week of closure, it is still unclear exactly when the systems will be fully up and running again - though it's hoped that stores can reopen to customers in time for the busy Christmas period.