Subscribe to trusted local news
In a time of both misinformation and too much information, quality journalism is more crucial than ever. By subscribing, you can help us get the story right.
- Subscription costs less than £1 a week with an annual plan.
Already a subscriber? Log in here.
19
Jul 2021
People urged to respect businesses' wishes as face mask order dropped
A Harrogate business organisation has urged people to respect the choices of traders as the legal requirement to wear a face mask is dropped.
Businesses across the district have been left to advise customers on whether or not to wear a face covering.
It comes as today has been dubbed "Freedom Day" because the remaining restrictions, including one metre plus rule and reopening of all venues without restrictions on numbers, are lifted.
However, while the legal requirement to wear a face mask has been removed, businesses are still encouraging people to wear one.
Matthew Chapman, manager of Harrogate BID, said some firms were keen to minimise risk of staff having to self-isolate.
He said:
Read more:
- Vaccine passports for nightclubs ‘impractical’, says Viper Rooms boss
- Sneak peek: The return of Ripon’s department store
North Bar, on Cheltenham Parade, is among the businesses encouraging customers to wear a face mask. It posted on its Facebook page that staff would be wearing face coverings and asked guests to do the same.
Elsewhere, Neil Mendoza, general manager at The Studley Hotel and Orchid Restaurant, told the Stray Ferret that staff would continue to wear face masks and social distance in the hotel and restaurant.
He added that he took the decision as he was worried about staff having to self isolate:
Meanwhile, Harrogate Bus Company has recommended that passengers continue to wear face masks on its services.
Alex Hornby, chief executive of the company, said:
Earlier this week, the Rail Delivery Group, the industry body that represents Northern and Transpennine services, said passengers should follow government guidance and wear a face covering if a carriage is busy.
LNER has said it will continue to ask customers to wear face coverings and to reserve a seat on its trains in order to avoid overcrowding.
Will you still be wearing a face mask even though restrictions have been lifted? Let us know at contact@thestrayferret.co.uk.
0