Police act over facemasks in Doncaster Frenchgate Centre after concerns too many failing to wear them

Police have warned shoppers at Doncaster’s Frenchgate Centre they must wear facemasks inside the mall after concerns were raised too many were failing to obey rules.
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Managers at the shopping centre have also toughened up on measures to make sure people stick to laws on masks – which legally have to be worn inside the centre.

Complaints are understood have been made by shoppers to both the centre and to Doncaster Council over some shoppers failing to mask-up.

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Now Doncaster police have issued a statement to residents in a bid to make the rules clear.

Signs at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster,  warning people they must wear a facemaskSigns at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster,  warning people they must wear a facemask
Signs at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster, warning people they must wear a facemask

It said: “Under the current government guidelines concerning Covid-19, members of the public are reminded that it is mandatory to wear a face mask/covering when entering the Frenchgate Centre in Doncaster town centre.

“Many thanks for your continued support.”

Karen Staniforth, assistant general manager at the centre said she welcomed police making it clear that masks were compulsory in the Frenchgate.

She said: “We have actively encouraged visitors to the centre to wear a mask since the policy was introduced in July.

Signs at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster,  warning people they must wear a facemaskSigns at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster,  warning people they must wear a facemask
Signs at the Frenchgate Centre, in Doncaster, warning people they must wear a facemask
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"Our security guards are now manning the doors and are reminding people that they have to put their mask on as soon as they enter the centre.

“In addition to this we have increased the signage within the centre, and we have also run a campaign on our social media platforms to ensure people are aware they need to wear a mask.

“Although wearing a mask is mandatory, we fully acknowledge that some customers are exempt for medical reasons and we want to make them feel welcome as well.

“Customer safety is at the forefront of everything we do, however it is important to stress that we all have a role to play to ensure that we protect each other and you can play your part by wearing a mask.”

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One resident raised their concerns with the Free Press this month. He said: “I have just been into the Frenchgate Centre to visit the Three shop and was shocked to see so many people without face masks in there and I also noticed that people were wearing them to enter the centre and then straightaway taking them off.”