NEW rules on face masks being worn in public places have come into force today.

Sussex residents will have to wear one if they are in supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, takeaways banks and at transport centres like rail stations.

Police have the power to hand out £100 fines to those who refuse to obey the law.

But people with health conditions and children under the age of 11 can be exempt from the law.

It follows the previous rules for passengers and staff on public transport being told to wear coverings or face a fine.

Read more on this story: Where to buy face masks in Brighton and Hove

As the coronavirus lockdown has been eased new rules to protect the public have been brought in.

The Argus:

The issue has sparked debate after the Government's apparent U-turn on the issue earlier this month when Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced face masks will need to be worn.

Major retailers like Sainsbury's have warned they will not get their staff to enforce the rules.

Read more on this story: Shoppers urged to wear face masks in Sussex

Meanwhile readers have reported that many public transport operators have also not enforced the face mask rule on services.

In Brighton and Hove, some retailers have said they are not clear on what their responsibilities are under the new rules.

Read more on this story: Brighton and Hove retailers prepare for mandatory face masks rule

When coronavirus first arrived in Britain, there were reports of panic buying of face masks at pharmacists across Brighton and Hove over fears of the spread of the disease.

Government guidance states that staff in premises where face coverings are required are encouraged to take steps "to promote compliance with the law" and can refuse entry to people who do not have a valid exemption under the rules.