A MAN is furious he was kicked out of a bakery for not wearing a mask. 

Tradesman Christopher O’connor entered The Bread Bin in Applesham Avenue, Hangleton, last Thursday. 

The Newhaven man said he does not wear masks as he has severe asthma.

But he was told to leave the bakery, near The Grenadier pub, as he could not provide evidence of an exemption. 

He said: “I went in to get a coffee and a bit of breakfast. 

“I was shocked that he didn’t let me explain myself, I felt quite angry and like I was not welcome in there.

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“I was knocked back, you can’t treat people like that.

“It’s the only bakery in Hangleton and I love going in there.

“I can’t wear the mask and I’m not just going to shove one on and suffer, I’m not showing symptoms or anything.”

Face coverings are largely intended to protect others, not the wearer, against the spread of infection

In England, you must wear a face covering in many indoor settings – including shops.

However, people who cannot put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment or disability are exempt. 

Some people may feel more comfortable showing something that says they do not have to wear a face covering – but this is a personal  choice and is not necessary in law. 

Mr O’connor said: “This is the first time that this has happened to me. 

“I shouldn’t have to explain this wherever I go.”

Nigel Hill, manager of The Bread Bin, said asking for proof of exemption is a policy intended to protect his staff and customers. 

He said: “This is the standard policy – we have big signs requesting everyone wears a mask.

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“We have a bunch of spare masks in a box in case customers forget to bring one. 

“This is something we stand by, I have a duty of care to staff and customers. 

“Some customers we know by face and have an exemption – however if it’s a new customer, we ask them to wear a face mask or provide an exemption."

Masks are required – unless you are exempt – on public transport, shops and supermarkets, shopping centres, places of worship, visitor attractions and entertainment venues.

Premises where face coverings are required should take “reasonable steps” to “promote compliance” with the law.

The Argus:

If necessary, the police and Transport for London (TfL) officers have enforcement powers including issuing fines of £100.

Repeat offenders receiving fines on public transport or in an indoor setting will have their fines doubled at each offence.

For example, receiving a second fine will amount to £200 and a third fine will be £400, up to a maximum value of £3,200.