Coronavirus marshals to ensure rules are followed
PATROLS WILL OFFER ADVICE AND CHECK FOR RULE BREAKERS
NEW coronavirus marshals are to ensure people are observing the restrictions in a district.
North West Leicestershire has appointed the officials “primarily to provide support and offer guidance to shoppers across the district”.
They will also keep an eye out for those who are persistently putting others in danger by not complying with the regulations.
They cannot issue fines, but will report what they believe to be significant breaches to the council, which can take punitive measures.
Jack Curran will patrol Coalville and the southern parishes.
He said: “I’m really looking forward to getting stuck in and working with businesses in Coalville and the surrounding area to make sure we’re all doing our part to keep everyone safe.
“I’ll be the eyes and ears of the area and want to encourage people to feel as though they can approach me if they see something that they don’t think is quite right.
“If any businesses need any support and want to make sure they’re compliant with Covid-19 regulations, I’ll be happy to advise.”
Helen Crouch previously worked as a community response volunteer, making sure food parcels and prescriptions were delivered to the vulnerable.
She will be patrolling Ashby, Castle Donington and northern parishes.
She said: “I’m looking forward to meeting people while I’m out and about.
“My role is to provide support, so if you see me, don’t be afraid to stop me to say hello or raise any issues you have.”
Councillor Andrew Woodman, communities services spokesman, said: “Having compliance officers out in the district daily helps us to identify issues, resolve them quickly and create a safer environment for both shoppers and workers.
“It’s really important we all pull together to shop local and support our businesses after the events of this year, but to do that people need to feel safe – and our new marshals will support that.”