KEY MEMBERS of the Salisbury community are urging the public to wear face coverings in shops from Friday, to help residents feel safe and avoid being charged a £100 fine.

Last week the Government announced that nose and mouth coverings are to become compulsory in supermarkets and shops from July 24, and to not wear one could result in the charge.

It will be up to police to dish out these penalties, although business owners are being asked to encourage customers to comply.

The Government has said coverings can be made from scarves, bandanas or other fabric items, as long as they cover the mouth and nose.

Speaking to the Journal during a visit to Baileys Of Salisbury - The Bed Experts, Mayor of Salisbury John Walsh said: “Having to wear masks inside shops is not ideal, but I feel it is worth it if it will reduce the risk of a second spike and make people feel safer for using our local shops.

“I would encourage everyone to mask up.”

After the visit, managing director of the store in Fisherton Street, Simon Bailey, said: “It was a pleasure to welcome the Mayor and Mayoress into our store [on Monday] to give them the opportunity to see all the hard work we have completed to ensure our shop is fully Covid-19 secure.

"We look forward to welcoming all our customers back into a safe environment.

“We are fully stocked with a large range of beds on offer to suit most pockets, and always offer friendly and helpful assistance from our family-run team of staff.”

The latest 'mask' regulations will be made under the Public Health (Control of Disease) Act 1984.

The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies says incorrect use of coverings – such as wearing them wrong, touching the face more than normal and reusing dirty ones – could increase the spread of infection.

Leader of Salisbury City Council Jeremy Nettle said it is time to “learn to smile with our eyes”.

He added: “This new must-have fashion accessory is essential to protect not only the shop assistants but your fellow shoppers, as well as yourself, and in any environment where you feel that it is unavoidable to maintain social distancing.

“Please do remember when out and about shopping the ‘three Ps’ - be protective, be polite, and be proud to be shopping in Salisbury.

"A final plea is if you are wearing a disposable face covering please dispose of it in a safe way, helping to keep our city litter free keeps us all safer.”