Wearing face masks in shops is to be made compulsory in England in the continuing fight against coronavirus, it was announced late last night.

It is set to become mandatory on July 24, and anyone failing to comply with the order could be fined up to £100.

This announcement follows weeks of speculation over whether ministers intended to make wearing masks compulsory, with rules already in place in Scotland, Spain and Italy.

Opinions towards being made to wear a covering in shops is mixed amongst Bolton News readers.

Many thought it is right to be compulsory and that if anything this announcement has come too late.

Janette Mcclean said: "It should have been made the law months and months ago when this first started. Too little too late now."

Gail Rigley said: "Yes especially when we go into colds and flu season." and Terry Calgie said: "Rather wear a mask in shops than be on a ventilator in hospital, but everyone has their own opinion of course."

However, some believe wearing a face covering is unnecessary.

Steve Leach said: "No, I prefer to use my common sense and keep my distance."

Jon Heath added: "Don't think it's practical for all, some can't wear for health reasons, people with glasses would find it hard to keep their lenses clear, and some people may feel they cant breathe."

Finally, Diane Williams believes wearing a mask won't stop the spread of the disease.

She said: "No, people don't know how to wear them properly. Always touching them after handling goods and they have probably contaminated their mask and are breathing that in. Just sanitise every time you go in a shop and wipe hands then wash hands when you're home. Social distancing is also important."

A Number 10 spokesman said last night: "There is growing evidence that wearing a face covering in an enclosed space helps protect individuals and those around them from coronavirus.

"The Prime Minister has been clear that people should be wearing face coverings in shops and we will make this mandatory from July 24."

The government has only been recommending that people wear face coverings in enclosed spaces, such as shops since May, and it has been mandatory on public transport since June 15.