Face coverings must now be worn to funerals thanks to new rules in force from tomorrow.

The list of places in Maidstone where masks are now mandatory has been expanded under Government guidelines in the hope of further slowing transmission of the Covid-19 virus.

Maidstone Borough Council (MBC) is enforcing the new regulations Vinters Park Crematorium and mourners will be required to wear a mask throughout.

Sharon Smith, bereavement services manager at MBC, said: "We have implemented this new guidance immediately and via their funeral director, have informed the families of all the planned funerals already booked and will be informing anyone who books a funeral that they must all wear a face covering.

"The maximum number of people currently allowed to attend a funeral has not been changed and remains at 30."

Government advice says that face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection because they cover the nose and mouth. People are being advised to wear them in all enclosed spaces where social distancing may not be possible.

Also included in the new rules from this weekend will be Maidstone Museum in St Faith's Street.

Museum director Victoria Barlow said: "The Museum has seen a steady stream of visitors since reopening and we are very happy to implement this new requirement.

"We are indeed living in very unusual times and if this new measure helps keep our visitors and staff safe we welcome it."

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