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Covid marshals start patrolling Bristol’s streets
The job of Bristol’s new Covid marshals is to provide support and guidance to residents and businesses across the city.
Supporting efforts to stem the rising tide of coronavirus infections, their roles include helping with queues and social distancing, handing out face masks and sanitiser, and cleaning frequently touched surfaces.
While marshals cannot enforce regulations, they will work closely with the police and Bristol City Council officers to report any breaches.
is needed now More than ever
Bristol mayor, Marvin Rees, said that we “can’t be complacent” about the rising cases of coronavirus.
He said: “We ask everyone to please be kind to our marshals; they are doing their best in very difficult circumstances. If you are approached by a marshal, please cooperate with them and be respectful.”
Civid marshals Justin and Michael near the fountains in the centre – photo: Bristol City Council
Neighbourhood chief inspector, Mark Runacres, added: “Our approach has always been to engage, explain and encourage people to follow the Covid-19 safety guidance, with enforcement action only taken against those who breach the legal requirements as a last resort.
Earlier this year, prime minister Boris Johnson announced that £60m will be made available across the police and local authorities for compliance and enforcement activities.
Bristol has received an allocation of £282,752 through this funding and the council has pledged to recruit a minimum of 16 marshals in the coming weeks to combat the spread of the virus.
Main photo: Bristol City Council
Read more: Drive-through Covid testing opens at Brislington park & ride
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