Full list of who is exempt from wearing a face mask as they become mandatory in shops

People are required by law to wear a mask when in shops and supermarkets as of Friday, July 24.

Under the new rules, people will need to have their nose and mouth covered or face a fine of up to £100.

However, the government has set out a criteria for who is exempt.

The government guidance states: "You do not need to wear a face covering if you have a legitimate reason not to.

"In settings where face coverings are required in England, there are some circumstances, for health, age or equality reasons, where people are not expected to wear face coverings.

"Please be mindful and respectful of such circumstances, noting that some people are less able to wear face coverings, and that the reasons for this may not be visible to others."

This is who is exempt from mandatory face mask usage, under the government guidelines:

- Young children under the age of 11 (Public Health England do not recommended face coverings for children under the age of 3 for health and safety reasons)

- If you are not able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability

_ If putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress

- If you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading to communicate

- To avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others

- To avoid injury, or to escape a risk of harm, and you do not have a face covering with you

- To eat or drink if reasonably necessary

- In order to take medication

- If a police officer or other official requests you remove your face covering

There are also scenarios when you are permitted to remove a face covering when asked:

- If asked to do so in a bank, building society, or post office for identification

- If asked to do so by shop staff or relevant employees for identification, the purpose of assessing health recommendations, such as a pharmacist, or for age identification purposes including when buying age restricted products such as alcohol

- If speaking with people who rely on lip reading, facial expressions and clear sound. Some may ask you, either verbally or in writing, to remove a covering to help with communication

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Thank you

Laura Collins