People without a face covering could be refused entry from Friday, Milton Keynes shopping centre boss warns

But there are some exceptions, including children under the age of 11, people with disabilities or those with breathing difficulties.

"Members of the team will be on hand to support our visitors throughout their visit," said intu general manager Shelley Peppard.

She said: “Throughout the pandemic, we have been and will continue to do everything we can to make sure intu Milton Keynes is a safe place to visit and work. That includes following the guidance from Public Health England and the Government. So far, most of our brands are now open, and we’re seeing more, and more of our visitors returning every day. People are really enjoying being back, and making the most of a little retail therapy.

"In addition to the existing safety measures we already have in place, from 24 July everyone that visits the centre, whether that’s to work or to shop, will need to wear a face covering."

Shelley added: "We know that the experience will feel different, however we hope these measures will help provide all our visitors with additional reassurance.”

A spokesman for neighbouring centre:mk said: “We want people to be confident to come back and shop at centre:mk. If wearing a face covering in shops helps them to feel reassured, then we believe this is a positive thing."