SAINSBURY'S has confirmed it is the second supermarket giant that will get tough on customers flouting Covid restriction rules.

The company, which has stores in Hoylake, Prenton and Upton, has announced it will post trained security guards at shop entrances to 'challenge' any customers who refuse to wear a mask without proof of exemption, or who are shopping in groups.

Yesterday, Morrisons confirmed that customers who refuse to wear a face mask without showing proof of exemption will be told to leave.

Related link: https://www.wirralglobe.co.uk/news/19002819.morrisons-customers-not-wearing-masks-face-banned/

Simon Roberts, chief executive at Sainsbury’s, said: "I’ve spent a lot of time in our stores reviewing the latest situation over the last few days and on behalf of all my colleagues, I am asking our customers to help us keep everyone safe.

“The vast majority of customers are shopping safely, but I have also seen some customers trying to shop without a mask and shopping in larger family groups.

“Please help us to keep all our colleagues and customers safe by always wearing a mask and by shopping alone.

"Everyone’s care and consideration matters now more than ever.”

Yesterday Morrisons announced it turn away any customers who refuse to wear a mask without having a valid reason.

The decision made by Morrisons to turn customers away if they refused to wear a mask without having an exemption was praised by Health Secretary Matt Hancock in his press briefing yesterday.

He said: “I applaud the action Morrisons has taken today, the supermarket, they have said that they will not let people in without a mask unless they clearly have a medical reason.

“That’s the right approach and I want to see all parts of society playing their part in this.”