MORE than 1,000 littered face masks have been disposed of by York’s Covid marshals.

The team of six marshals also patrol and advise people in the city about Covid safety measures.

They were due to be in place until March, but council leaders will be advised to extend their contract for a further six months to cover the easing of lockdown restrictions.

A City of York Council spokesperson said that since the marshals were introduced in December 2020, they have picked up 1,062 discarded face masks, handed out personal protective equipment including face coverings and hand sanitiser to 161 people, spoken to 1,100 groups and advised 775 businesses.

Cllr Andrew Waller said: “We will need, as a city, to maintain many safety features of the last year going forward to keep Covid rates down whilst the reopening happens, especially with new variants emerging.

“The marshals’ expertise is helping support businesses to stay safely open, by signposting them to sources of advice on Covid infection control measures, licensing, grants and other matters.

“With the Government’s roadmap now published, the team will bring added confidence in the city reopening safely. I’m grateful for their work and the advice that they have provided to businesses.”

The marshals have also been given a 98.8 per cent satisfaction rating from the people they have worked with.

Cllr Denise Craghill added: “Helping people stay safe has a direct impact on infection rates in the city.

“While the vast majority of people have been observing the advice to stay home, others have needed to be reminded to socially distance – and the marshals’ satisfaction levels indicate they’ve done this in a measured and appropriate way.

“The extra targeted support they are giving to North Yorkshire Police officers and BID rangers is a welcome addition to help keep the city safe."

The team is funded by a pot set aside for recovery from the pandemic.

The marshals take a proactive approach to monitor busy areas where they urge people to follow social distancing and speak to businesses. They work with police and York BID rangers.

Anyone with concerns about social distancing or littered face masks should email public.protection@york.gov.uk