Castle Medical Group in Ashby says face coverings must still be worn by patients despite the relaxing of some Covid regulations.

Despite last Monday being described as 'Freedom Day' - council and health authorities have warned the public not to become complacent.

The Burton Road health centre has issued a clear message that people visiting the surgery will still be required to wear a mask.

A message on Castle Medical's Facebook page says: "We remain committed to maintain the safety of patients and staff.

"Please continue to wear a face mask when visiting the practice.

"This helps protect the elderly, young and vulnerable.

"The way we consult had to change during Covid.

"For medical advice, we will continue to offer a telephone appointment in the first instance, and a face-to-face will be arranged if clinically necessary."

West Leicestershire Clincial Commissioning Group added: "NHS bosses in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland (LLR) are reminding the public that they will still need to wear a mask or face covering in healthcare settings, including vaccination sites.

Caroline Trevithick, Chief Nurse for the three LLR Clinical Commissioning Groups, said: "Although most covid restrictions will end in the community from Monday, we need to take extra precautions in healthcare settings.

"Your GP practice is working hard for you and wants to keep you safe and confident when attending the surgery, and this is also about protecting others.

"When you visit your GP practice, you can help keep our staff and our most vulnerable patients safe by continuing to follow the simple precautions that we are all now familiar with.

"You must wear a mask or face covering, sanitise your hands and maintain social distancing."

Avinash Hiremath, Medical Director of Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust (LPT), said: It is important for everyone to know that the guidance for healthcare settings is not the same as it is for our outside, social or home lives. We care for vulnerable and unwell people in close contact.

"It is our responsibility as health and care professionals to keep everyone safe and reduce transmissions, and that includes visitors abiding by our rules when they come into our sites.

"The pandemic is not over.

"Cases across the UK are currently rising, as are hospitalisations. We must all act carefully to manage the risks to ourselves and others."