As I sat watching reports about the increase in cases of Covid-19, especially among young people who are generally not socially distancing, I wondered if the South-West, one of the safest areas in the country, is going to see an increase in cases, putting people at risk again.

I was waiting outside one of our local shops, as only two people were allowed in at one time. A young man bounded up and asked me if this was the shop that sold a certain item, then two more young men arrived and surrounded me, not wearing masks. I asked them to step back, which they did.

As one person came out of the shop I went in, then the second customer came out and the three men went in, even though the notice said two only. So four people were now in the shop, three not wearing masks, as required.

I mentioned this to the proprietor and was told it was not his job to police people. He obviously was not concerned at all about me, a 76-year-old, he was more concerned with selling his goods!

I did mention that people may think twice about going into establishments where safety is being compromised. I am a regular customer at the shop, and the young men were obviously casual visitors, but I may not go in so regularly after this.

I take my hat off to shops which ask customers to respect other people and stick to the guidelines.

Barbara Hawkins

Holywell Lake