Shoppers in Lancaster get used to new face coverings rule

Shoppers across the Lancaster district are getting used to donning a mask after the new mandatory government ruling was brought in.
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As of Friday July 24, it is now compulsory to wear face coverings in shops in England, and our photographer was out and about in Lancaster this morning snapping the scenes as people were getting used to the 'new normal'.

A Downing Street spokesman told the BBC earlier this month that "there is growing evidence that wearing a face covering in an enclosed space helps protect individuals and those around them from coronavirus."

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Those who do not comply with the new measures could face fines of up to £100, though this figure will be reduced to £50 if people pay within 14 days.

Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin StuttardShoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard

John O'Neill, Lancaster & District Chamber of Commerce manager, said it was important to follow the guidelines to help slow the spread of Covid-19.

He said: "From what I have observed most people are wearing masks in shops.

"It's important to emphasise that masks protect others from any fluids you may expel, not the other way around.

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"It's another measure to help stop the spread of this virus. We are now seeing countries that have had a previous low infection rate suddenly hit with spikes in infection.

Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin StuttardShoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard

"The virus doesn't act with any predictability so the more we, as humans, can do to mitigate the risk of infection the sooner we can get back to a normal way of like.

"Hopefully wearing masks is a short term measure, like all others."

Lancashire Police have said they are working with partners to help them engage with businesses not following the regulations.

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Officers are also out and about, and are including shops and supermarkets in their patrols, to reassure both shop workers and the wider public.

Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin StuttardShoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
Shoppers in Lancaster are now wearing masks as they shop. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard

They have advised people to not contact them if they see someone not wearing a face covering in a shop or supermarket, due to the number of people who are exempt or have invisible illnesses.

Specific advice has also been given to retailers on when the police should be called.

A spokesman said: "These regulations are to protect public health - it is people’s personal responsibility to stick to the new laws and wear a face covering to keep themselves and others safe.

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"If you are asked to wear a face covering by anyone working in a retail business then please be kind and use one – they are just doing their job and we're all in this together.

Shoppers in Lancaster get used to the new face coverings rule. Photo: Kelvin StuttardShoppers in Lancaster get used to the new face coverings rule. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard
Shoppers in Lancaster get used to the new face coverings rule. Photo: Kelvin Stuttard

"As we have through the pandemic, we will be taking a common sense approach, engaging with people, explaining the new rules and seeking to avoid the need to use enforcement powers.

"Look after each other, and help us to help you by sticking to the regulations and reducing the spread. Let's make sure we get back to normal as soon as possible!"

If you see a particular shop or store consistently ignoring the rules, you can report them online hereLancaster City Council is also helping to advise local people about the new regulations.

Here's all you need to know about the new regulation.