Police will be "engaging and talking" to people in Biddulph when it comes to enforcing the wearing of masks, but "have got the facilities to fine people" if it is needed.

That was the message of a local police Sergeant at a meeting of Biddulph Town Council last night (Tuesday).

It comes following the announcement that wearing face masks will be compulsory in England from Friday, 24th July, with police being given the power to issue fines of up to £100 to those who do not comply.

At last night's meeting, Sgt Machin, of Staffordshire Police's Biddulph team, gave an update on policing in the town, and was asked about the new mask legislation by town Cllr Kevin Jackson.

Cllr Jackson said: "Regarding the change about face masks in shops, I was wondering how that is going to be policed, and are you looking at putting extra resources into it?

"I can see how it could cause extra friction between customers and shop workers, so I'm wondering what is the police's perspective on that change?"

In response, Sgt Machin said shops could refuse entry to anyone not wearing a mask, but advised shop workers to only call the police if a customer was refusing to comply.

He said: "Since this has been announced, the National Police Council have sent us an update on the latest law and what we're going to be doing with it.

"In relation to policing, we have resources and a good team in Biddulph, and in relation to breaches with masks, shop workers have the right to refuse entry, as they have always been able to do for any reason.

"If they have an issue where people aren't complying or causing problems, then they can of course ring the police, whether it's 101 or 999 depending on the situation.

"We will then look at the issue and approach it appropriately. Firstly though, it's up to stores to have the appropriate signage, although we have got the facilities to fine people, which we will do if needs be.

"We will be engaging and talking to people, so hopefully they will be receptive, but we will see what happens."

Since mid-May, members of the public have been advised to wear coverings in enclosed public spaces, where they may encounter people they would not usually meet.

Mask-wearing has been compulsory on public transport in England and at NHS facilities across the UK since 15 June.

Children under 11 and those with certain disabilities will be exempt. The new rule will not apply to retail staff.