POLICE have been pumping additional officers into patrols at Lakeside's shopping centre in the wake of clashes between shoppers and staff over the wearing of masks to prevent and contain coronavirus infection.

A police presence was stepped up in response to reports of shop staff being abused by people refusing to wear face coverings.

And Thurrock's top cop, divisional commander Chief Inspector Richard Melton said it's not just Lakeside where there have been issues.

"We have had additional patrols out and about every day in support of the communities, patrolling town centres, shopping centres and supporting shops, to ensure the legislation is enforced," he said.

"We have had reports, whereby shopkeepers have tried to enforce the legislation and some of the public have been abusive towards them, refusing to wear their face coverings.

"The expectation is, as it is of all member of the public, ourselves included, we are doing the right thing, we have to enforce the legislation when we're at work and when we are not.

"For the people of Essex, carry on doing what you are doing making sure that you comply with the legislation, ensuring that we can focus on policing, as opposed to policing the COVID pandemic, thank you.

"We know it is not always easy and the compassion, resilience, and determination from the our communities over the last few months has been outstanding. We want to thank you for your continued support as we work together to help to keep the county safe."