HUNDREDS of people were turned away from IKEA this morning after a contractor died overnight.

The 45,000sqft store remained shut as police and IKEA staff investigate the death.

“We are very saddened to confirm that this morning a contractor died in an incident on our site,” said Javier Quinones, the deputy retail manager of IKEA UK and Ireland.

“The safety and security of everyone on our premises is always our highest priority and we are now supporting the Thames Valley Police with their investigation.

“Our thoughts are with the individual’s family at this time.”

A Thames Valley Police spokesman said all three emergency services were called to the scene.

“We were called to IKEA in Pincents Lane, Reading today at 2.33am by the ambulance service,” he said.

“We attended the scene where sadly a man had died. The fire service also attended. No arrests have been made. Officers remain at the site while an investigation is carried out.”

The £10million two-story store opened on July 14 and has been blighted by car park troubles.

The Health and Safety executive has confirmed because of the nature of the incident they won't be involved in the investigation. 

A spokesperson said: "That will be dealt with by the local authority. If we get asked to assist the authorities and we will oblige."