Tesco - with a store in Ashby - has confirmed the updated safety measure following changes to the Government's Covid guidelines.

In a letter to customers from Tesco Chief Executive Jason Tarry, it is clear that the store wants to remain cautious and ensure people can shop in a safe environment.

And Tesco is encouraging people to wear a face mask while in the store - with hygiene, cleaning and safety measures staying in place.

In January, Tesco said it was banning shoppers who entered the store without a mask.

And, the previous October, Tesco introduced a 'Traffic Light' system allowing greater control over who was in the store at any one time.

Mr Tarry says: "Throughout the pandemic, we've focused on making sure everyone can get the food they need in a safe environment.

"As Government guidance on COVID-19 continues to change, I wanted to share an update on the safety measures in our stores.

"While the easing of restrictions means that some safety measures will no longer be a legal requirement, we've listened to customers and our colleagues, and we know a lot of people remain cautious.

"In line with the government advice to act carefully, we feel it's important to continue with certain measures to be on the safe side.

"Here's what we're doing to make sure everyone feels as safe as possible in our stores.

"Please keep wearing a face covering in our stores if you can

"Although the legal requirement to wear a face covering in England ends on 19 July, the government expects and recommends that people continue to wear a face covering in crowded and enclosed spaces.

"So we're encouraging our colleagues and you, our customers, to continue wearing face coverings if you can.

"We're keeping enhanced hygiene, cleaning and safety measures in place

"As before, you'll find sanitiser and wipes at the store entrance.

"The screens at the checkout are staying as well. We're keeping the traffic light system in place too, to help monitor the flow of customers and prevent overcrowding."

Tesco has outlined other measures for customers.

Quieter hour

Tesco will continue to set time aside for customers who need or want a quieter shopping experience, to make sure that everyone can shop safely. Please check the store locator for the Ashby Tesco hours.

Shopping online

If you're shopping online, Tesco colleagues are happy to keep a safe distance when they deliver your shopping and they will always do so if you're self-isolating. If that's the case, please tell your driver or let Tesco know in the delivery notes. All drivers will continue to sanitise their hands and equipment regularly too.

Tesco continues to offer priority slots for vulnerable customers. And if you're vulnerable, disabled or elderly, you can also ask our drivers to carry your shopping into your home for you, as long as you aren't self-isolating.

Supporting communities

Tesco is continuing to support local communities tackling COVID-19, and helping children and families across the UK.

From today (Monday) Tesco is also launching a new campaign called Buy One to Help a Child, which aims to donate up to three million meals to help children living in food insecurity. Every time you buy a piece of fresh fruit or veg in one of our stores or online between 19 July and 8 August, Tesco will donate to FareShare to provide meals for children who need them most*.

Every little helps

Tesco is really grateful for your support and everything you've been doing to help keep store colleagues and other customers safe. Tesco says staff are here to help and are still working very hard in difficult circumstances, so they urge shoppers to continue to be kind, patient and respectful.