PEOPLE of Oswestry appear divided on whether or not they will continue wearing face masks in public, even if the UK Government makes it a matter of personal choice.

The protective measure has been mandatory on public transport and in NHS facilities since June 2020, and compulsory in shops since July 2020.

But the government is now thought to be preparing an announcement which will mean face coverings become voluntary in many, or all, settings once so-called ‘freedom day’ arrives on July 19.

With some people opting for a more cautious approach when it comes to relaxing all restrictions, and others eager to return to normality at the earliest opportunity, we asked Oswestry residents whether they will decide to keep their face masks, or get rid of them.

The response was split, with some people, including Jonny Monk, stating people should wear them if it would make people feel more comfortable.

He commented: “Despite them being uncomfortable and reasonably inconvenient, it would certainly be best to continue wearing for a short period to put those who are less comfortable with the restriction easing and to offer them peace of mind.”

Helene Bobb-Scott stated that wearing a mask will be something she continues to do until she feels more comfortable.

Dan Tapp commented that he will still wear his in enclosed spaces, such as shops, while reader David Mottram believes there are still some places masks will be needed.

More residents including Jane Bebbington, Elaine Morris, Jane Kynaston and Molly Gurnett all agreed that they will continue wearing masks beyond July 19.

On the other hand, many residents responded with a simple ‘no’ – including Amy Nurse, Rubin Red, Jake Weston and Hazel Steadman.

Jeni Herbert commented: “No – only for work if they make us.”

Opinion is divided among medical experts too, with Paul Hunter, professor in medicine at the University of East Anglia, stating that he thought lifting facemask restrictions was fine, though people who are vulnerable may wish to take extra care.

He said Covid “will never go away”, adding that “our grandchildren’s grandchildren will be getting infected”, though he said it will become more like the common cold over time.

Meanwhile, Robert Dingwall, professor of sociology at Nottingham Trent University, said: “The benefits of masks have always been uncertain because the quality of the evidence in both directions is so weak.

“Any benefit has probably been quite small, or it would have been obvious even from weak studies, and needs to be offset by the psychological impact on population fear and anxiety, on children’s learning and interactions with adults, on people with communication issues, and on the substantial number of adults who cannot wear masks because of underlying health conditions or other disorders, including previous trauma from assaults or abuse.

“In my opinion it is a positive step to make mask-wearing voluntary.”

Scientific evidence suggests that face coverings worn over the nose and mouth reduce the spread of coronavirus droplets from coughs, sneezes and speaking.