ESSEX police have apologised to shopkeepers in Corringham who were incorrectly told by officers that they were breaching Covid-19 guidelines.

There was confusion in the town centre on Monday when a series of visits by police officers resulted in warnings to businesses that they were not adhering to regulations as staff were not wearing masks.

But, as the staff members were working behind Perspex screens, they do not have to wear masks and the police have now conceded they got it wrong.

A statement from the force to Thurrock Nub News today (Wedmesday, 30 September) says: "We visited shops in Corringham as part of our regular engagement with businesses about the regulations around wearing face coverings, social distancing, and the rule of six.

"On this occasion, shop staff working behind a barrier were incorrectly told they were required to wear a face covering.

"The regulations are fast moving in response to the changing situation around coronavirus and officers are doing their best to explain and engage with the public. Everything they do has the safety of the public at its heart.

"We apologise for any confusion and inconvenience caused on this occasion."