Mask-up ... or else

POLICE forces on the Costa Blanca are following a national crackdown on those flouting the legislation that requires the compulsory use of face masks in areas where maintaing the minimum 1.5 metre social distancing is not possible.

National headlines this week reported how police in Cuidad Real, have been issuing fines for failing to comply with the mandatory mask requirement, and to date over 40 fines of €100 have been issued in that city.

Officers had to tell one man to stop taking on his mobile phone so that they they could sanction him.

Smoking is apparently not a reason to not wear one either – so you are expected to replace between puffs.

Young people have tended to be most likely not to wear a mask.

Local police in Benidorm are now also enforcing the requirement, as many people appear to be ignoring it and walking around without a face mask.

Last week local residents Pam and Steve Brewis told Costa Blanca News that they were happily enjoying a drink at a bar, opposite camping El Raco when a police car pulled up outside and one of the officers came in.

He then asked everyone to show him their masks – as although they are not necessary while actually drinking and sitting at the correct distance from the next table, they should be worn while entering and leaving the premises.

The police also checked on other nearby bars, which Pam said was a good thing.

“With the arrival of more holidaymakers over the coming weeks, we need to ensure people are abiding by the rules and that our lockdown wasn't in vain,” she said.