No 999 mask calls

POLICE have warned people not to call them to report shoppers not wearing face masks.

As of last week, it has been mandatory for people in England to wear masks when in places such as shops and supermarkets but Lancashire police say reporting such issues will clog up call handlers and delay emergencies being dealt with.

Instead, they say shop staff have been told how and when it is necessary to contact emergency services.

Issuing the warning, the force said that while the control room became less busy during lockdown, it has now returned to normal levels.

A spokesman said: “There’s no need to contact us if you see an individual not wearing a face covering in shops or supermarkets – specific advice has been given to retailers on when we should be called.

“This will help us keep our Control Room Operators available for people who need a policing response in an emergency.

“If there is a business where the regulations are consistently not being followed, you can tell us about them via our dedicated COVID form online.

“If anyone, including shop workers, feel threatened or unsafe they should call 101 or 999 in an emergency.”

“Our officers will be out and about