A MAN who reportedly refused to wear a face mask without a valid reason has been arrested after police were called to Hereford's Bewell Street Tesco.

Footage of the incident, where officers were called to the city centre shop has since been uploaded to the internet.

In the video, understood to have been filmed by the man's son, a West Mercia Police officer is seen repeatedly asking the man for his name and details, which the man refuses to reveal.

OTHER NEWS:

He is then arrested for breaching coronavirus regulations after continuing to refuse to comply with the officer's questions.

Chief Inspector Ross Jones: “Police officers were called to Tesco in Hereford on Friday, January 15, to a report of a man who was causing distress to customers and staff.

"The man stated that he was not exempt from wearing a facing covering and would not wear one whilst in the shop.

"He would not provide his name and address for a fixed penalty notice to be issued and was arrested.

“The Covid-19 regulations in place to help prevent the spread of the virus and our first priority is to protect the public and help reduce the rates of transmission in Herefordshire.

"We attempt to engage, explain and encourage the public as was the clearly the case in this instance.

"We will enforce where necessary to support the incredible work of our colleagues in the NHS and the majority of the public who are adhering to the regulations.”