A fish and chip shop is telling customers they do not need to wear a mask if they are the only person in the shop.

Barming Fish and Chips in Maidstone has put up a sign in the window which says: "No mask required when one in, one out of the shop."

It has been mandatory for face masks to be worn in shops and cafes serving takeaway food since Friday, July 24.

Stand-in manager at the Tonbridge Road takeaway, Russell, said: "We only allow a maximum of two people in the shop at one time but if there's just one person they can wear a mask or not, whatever they feel comfortable with."

He says the sign has been up for a few days and the staff have not received any comments about it.

Russell added around half of customers wear a mask when in the takeaway on their own.

Chefs at the fish and chip shop wear face coverings, with front-of-house staff allowed to decide for themselves, which is in line with government regulations.

Speaking about the new mask rules in general, Russell said: "I think they're a good idea but it's way too late. It should have happened a long time ago."

Read more: All the latest news from Maidstone