Jack Brereton, MP for Stoke-on-Trent South, has this week urged local residents to keep with the hands, face, space COVID regulations following concerns about mask wearing in local stores.

Jack’s office has received several complaints about adherence to the “face” element of the Government’s COVID safety rules, focused around supermarkets in Longton. In a statement with TESCO today he urges people to follow the guidelines; wear a mask when in store, keep 2 metres apart whenever you can, and wash your hands before going to the store and when you return.

In Stoke-on-Trent there were 361 cases reported over the last 7 days, down 26.8% from the previous period.

Jack Brereton MP said:

“For everyone’s safety it is vital you follow the guidelines, wearing a mask in stores unless exempt. Tackling Coronavirus is a team effort and a weak link could mean a new outbreak of the virus. Although we have made good progress getting the case number down, a lapse now could easily mean another outbreak.

I thank TESCO for engaging promptly with this issue.”

Keith Jackson, Tesco Communications Manager, said:

“Since the start of the pandemic, we have focused on ensuring everyone can get the food they need in a safe environment. 

To protect our customers and colleagues, we won’t let anyone into our stores who is not wearing a face covering, unless they are exempt in line with Government guidance. We are also asking our customers to shop alone, unless they’re a carer or with children.

Our colleagues are working hard in difficult circumstances to make sure everyone can get what they need, and we’d ask everyone to please be kind, patient and respectful as we all work to keep each other safe.”