A STORE has told all of its employees to stay at home on Boxing Day as a reward for a year of hard work.

Staff at Wickes stores, including one in Davigdor Road, Hove, were instead ordered to take a “well-earned festive break”.

This is the first time the store, which was founded in Manchester in 1972, will not be open on December 26.

A Wickes spokesman said: “This Christmas we are thanking our colleagues for their continued hard work by closing our stores nationwide on Boxing Day, giving them a well-earned festive break.

“We hope this extra day off ensures our colleagues are able to fully enjoy the Christmas period and spend valuable time with their friends and family.”