READERS of The Oldham Times have responded to the return of masks on public transport and in shops as Omicron starts to spread in the UK.

The Prime Minister announced the rule over the weekend, as well as other rules including self-isolation for contacts of cases of Omicron and testing for all international arrivals.

There were two cases of Omicron at the time of the announcement, but the number is rising, with the total approaching 10 at the time of writing.

At the start of the week, The Oldham Times went to its readers on social media for their response to the return of masks.

With the rule coming into action tomorrow, it seems it is no problem to a lot of the town.

Andi Jackson said: "I never stopped wearing one, so it makes no difference to me."

David Burrows added: "I never stopped. I don't see a problem with it."

Some readers even think the return of masks is not enough on its own.

Elaine Dubs said: "Well if it works fair enough I'll do it.

"I do think all flights to and from infected areas should be suspended."

Other readers, however, did not see the sense in the scope of the rule.

Scott Lomas said: "In shops and public transport but not in the pub, cinema, etc. What’s the point?"

Asked by The Oldham Times for their message to readers as Omicron starts to spread in the UK, a spokesperson for Oldham Council stressed the important of testing and vaccination.

They said: "Indications are showing the Omicron variant might be more transmittable than the Delta variant, so it’s more important than ever people get vaccinated to protect themselves against it and to help to reduce the transmission rate.

"Getting your vaccine and, when eligible, your booster jab continues to be the best protection against Covid, along with practising good hygiene, keeping spaces well ventilated, and wearing a face covering in enclosed or crowded spaces.

"As winter is arriving and more people spend time inside, please keep getting tested and remember to use a PCR test if you have symptoms.

"Please also remember to social distance where you can due to the potential of the virus being more transmittable than we’ve seen previously."