Hastings needs more understanding of the importance of facemasks

I am asking, on behalf of all those working in small shops and other businesses that are open to the public, for more compliance and understanding over the issue of wearing face coverings.

We all know that we should wear them in enclosed spaces and we know why.

Most people, I have noticed, are happy to comply even though they don’t all find it comfortable but some people seem, sadly, to believe that the rules do not apply to them.

I know that some have health issues that mean that they could have problems wearing face coverings and maybe they can get something from their doctor to confirm this but others, as I have discovered from shop and restaurant/cafe workers, just refuse with no good reason given for why they cannot or will not comply.

Please would these people consider the bigger picture and the risk to themselves and to their families if they were to pick up the virus when it could have been prevented.

Most shop and restaurant workers are, understandably, reluctant to get into an argument over this issue and they should not be put into this situation so please think how you would feel in their position especially where the workers often are unable to keep their distance from customers in a small shop etc.

We all have a part to play, whether or not you believe there is a problem, and the sooner we can stop this virus spreading, the sooner we can get back to normal which is, surely, everybody’s aim.

• Talk is increasing of further lockdowns in the UK. What do you think of the situation? Join the Big Conversation and have your say on everything from healthcare to how the pandemic has affected you personally and how we make our communities stronger: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/bc-eastbourne