MORE people are beginning to use Reading Station again as restrictions on the use of public transport ease.

Shoppers flocked to the town yesterday (June 15) to do some non-essential shopping for the first time since March as stores reopened their doors after the government allowed for more public spaces to open up.

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Pictures from yesterday also show small groups using the station, donning face coverings after they became mandatory on public transport in England.

Like the town, Reading's station has recently been close to empty, open only to those travelling to and from work as key workers.

Although many former commuters are still working from home where possible, the station is now starting to see and increase in passengers again as people travel for non-essential reasons as allowed under government guidelines.

More than 3,000 additional staff from British Transport Police, Network Rail, train operators and Transport for London (TfL) are being deployed at major stations and transport hubs to ensure the new rules are being followed.

The regulations fall under the Public Health Act 1984 and make face coverings mandatory on buses, coaches, trams, ferries, aircraft and trains in England.

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People with certain health conditions, disabled people and children aged under 11 do not have to wear one.

Passengers caught not complying with the regulations risk being fined £100 and removed from services.

Face coverings can be a scarf, piece of cloth or mask.