Police: 'We won't answer calls about shoppers not wearing face coverings in Northamptonshire'

Police will NOT answer calls about shoppers in Northamptonshire not wearing face coverings from tomorrow, Friday.

New rules come into force on Friday (July 24) making it mandatory to cover up in enclosed spaces in shops and supermarkets a bid to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

Health Secretary Matt Hancock announced the move saying that anyone failing to comply risks a £100 police fine.

Mr Hancock told the House of Commons last week: "Should an individual without an exemption refuse to wear a face covering, a shop can refuse them entry and can call the police if people refuse to comply."

But the county's Force says they are too busy to patrol shops and respond to calls about shoppers not wearing face masks unless there is a public order issue. Instead, people should use an online form so lines are kept free for emergencies.

Assistant Chief Constable Simon Blatchly said: “Our demand levels across the county have returned to pre-Covid levels and we have to prioritise the calls we receive.

"So, unless there is a public order issue, we won’t be attending calls about people failing to wear a face covering.

"We will not be patrolling every outlet in Northamptonshire and are relying on people following the rules.

“If people have concerns about shoppers not wearing face coverings, we ask they report the incident online, rather than contact our control room, to allow our call handlers to answer emergency calls.”

You can report breaches of coronavirus legislation, including around the misuse of face coverings HERE.

Covid-19 is so far known to have claimed 655 victims in Northamptonshire's two main hospitals and care home.

And Public Health officials admit they are concerned by the high number of fresh Covid-19 cases currently in Northampton, issuing warnings about car sharing and drafting in extra testing capacity from today until Monday.

Police are urging the public to be sensible and follow the Government's advice on face coverings.

ACC Blatchley added: “The Government has made it clear that people visiting shops and supermarkets from Friday must wear a face covering, as part of the drive to prevent the spread of Covid-19.

“Thankfully the number of cases of coronavirus is much lower now than a couple of months ago, however, as restrictions ease it is essential that we all follow the Government guidance in a bid to prevent a second wave of cases."

Current government guidance says from tomorrow: "Shops and supermarkets will be expected to encourage compliance with the law (as they would do more generally) and can refuse entry.

"If necessary, the police have the powers to enforce these measures, including through issuing a fine of £100 (halving to £50 if paid within 14 days).

"You are also strongly encouraged to wear a face covering in other enclosed public spaces where social distancing may be difficult and where you come into contact with people you do not normally meet."

Some people are exempt from wearing face coverings in shops and supermarkets, as they are on buses and trains.