Heroes don't wear capes, they wear face coverings.

That's the message to Hitchin residents from Herts County Council, North Herts District Council, the police, emergency services and our local NHS.

The bodies continue to urge people to play their part in

Hertfordshire and wear a face mask to prevent the spread of coronavirus and save lives.

Face coverings can be a disposable or reusable mask, or a scarf or other suitable fabric that fits securely around the side of the face and must be worn in shops,

supermarkets, shopping centres, train stations and other indoor locations such as cinemas,

libraries, museums and places of worship.

Face coverings are also needed in NHS settings,

including hospitals and GP surgeries.

It is also compulsory to wear one when buying food and drink to take away from cafes and shops.

People who have bought food or drink from a premises where it is possible to sit down are able to remove their face covering in order to eat and drink on site.

Wearing a face covering is not mandatory in other venues that have measures in place to

protect staff and the public, such as eat-in restaurants and pubs.

The bodies issued a statement which read: "Thank you to everyone in Hertfordshire who has followed the guidance and worn a face covering where it is mandatory.

"You are playing your part and helping control coronavirus in Hertfordshire - but we're not through this yet.

"Always be prepared by carrying a face covering with you and using it carefully when it is needed."

Anyone who does not follow the regulations – and is not exempt under one of the categories set out in the regulations – could face a fine by the police of up to £100.

However, the government announced on Friday that the maximum fine for not wearing a face covering will increase to £3,200.