Freedom Day: Masks - where will they still be required?

It has been described as 'Freedom Day'. It was pushed back by a month, but today is the day the Government has decided most Covid-19 restrictions can be lifted.

In reality though, it may not be that straightforward.

While the legal requirement to wear masks has now been lifted, they will still be required in many public places.

Yesterday health bosses in Kent stressed that they will remain a feature for the time being.

The Kent and Medway Clinical Commissioning Group confirmed that masks will still need to be worn by patients, visitors and staff - in all healthcare buildings including hospitals and GP surgeries. S

Social distancing will also remain - both in waiting rooms and wards.

It is a similar message from many theatres and shopping centres across the south.  

Shoppers at Festival Place in Basingstoke will be among those expected to follow the government's advice to wear the coverings indoors. As will audience members at Oxford's cultural venues.

Meanwhile on public transport, it is not as straightforward. Some companies, like Reading buses, have said while they will encourage mask use it will be up to passengers to decide.

On TfL Crossrail services from Reading, masks will still be compulsory. While Great Western Railway has said it will still 'expect' passengers on board trains to wear them.

Watch: Dan Panes, GWR: