TIGHTER travel restrictions and compulsory face coverings in shops and on public transport have been introduced from today to combat the spread of Covid-19 in light of the emergence of the new Omicron variant - a move welcomed in Dorset.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the new changes as part of ‘temporary and precautionary measures,’ alongside stricter self-isolation rules.

Dorset Echo: Prime Minister Boris Johnson during a media briefing in Downing Street, London, on coronavirus (Covid-19). Picture date: Saturday November 27, 2021. PA Photo. See PA story HEALTH Coronavirus. Photo credit should read: Hollie Adams/PA Wire.

People in Dorset will be expected to wear masks in shops and on public transport, but not in hospitality settings, while the government has also told schools that pupils should wear coverings in communal areas.

“The threat of Covid-19 has not disappeared and another lockdown is a nightmare scenario as we approach the busy Christmas trading period and the winter months,” said Ian Girling, Dorset Chamber chief executive.

“It is important that everyone follows the new restrictions due to come into force, including the return of mandatory face-wearing in shops and on public transport.”

Mr Girling did admit that ‘some businesses in Dorset will find the reintroduction of measures frustrating,’ but remains confident that ‘customary resilience’ will be shown on the ‘journey out of the pandemic and to economic recovery’

Businesses in Dorset appeared to back the move with Caroline Wakeford, owner of Cornucopia in St Mary Street, Weymouth, saying that the new rules do not change much.

She said: “I’m more than happy with wearing them, most people already do. There's not really much change. We have to be careful.”

Fellow shop owner, Justine Neale, who operates One Stop Shack in Bond Street, Weymouth, also backed the rule change but would not challenge those who do not.

Dorset Echo: Justine Neale at 1 Stop Beach and Gift Shack. Picture: 1 Stop Beach and Gift Shack

Ms Neale said: “I think it is a good idea. We would appreciate people wearing a mask, but we won’t argue if they do not.

“We notice that people do not even do their hands when they come. We have got to be careful.”

The government has urged schools to ensure masks are worn in communal settings, one Dorset education leader says they have already been doing so for some time.

David Herbert, South West CEO for Aspirations Academies Trust, which oversees Atlantic Academy and Budmouth Academy, said: ''Students at both secondary schools have been advised to wear masks in communal areas for several weeks - prior to the Government's announcement at the weekend - following guidance from Dorset County Council shortly after October half-term.''

The move was backed by Public Health Dorset who says ‘infection rates remain highest amongst school-aged children’ and have recommended additional measures for schools including enhanced testing, reduced mixing and wearing face coverings.

Sam Crowe, director of Public Health for Dorset Council, has said he would like 'reassure people' that the emergence of the Omicron variant, ruled a variant of concern by the World Health Organisation, is 'being studied closely' to understand any difference it may have - with no cases of the new strain detected in Dorset so far.

Mr Crowe said: "It’s important to remember that regardless of the strain of the virus, Covid-19 is still circulating in our communities and we’re continuing to see very high levels of infection in Dorset. We’re asking everyone to consider this increased risk due to high infection rates and take steps to prevent the spread of the virus as much as possible.

"Please wear a mask when you’re indoors or in a crowded space. We ask everyone to protect those around you by complying with the rules."