The Conservative MP for Southport said he has been contacted by dozens of local residents, appalled at seeing discarded masks lying on the floor across the area.

Southport and the rest of the Liverpool City Region is today under new Tier Three restrictions, following a sharp rise in positive Covid-19 tests and hospital admissions in the Merseyside area.

Mr Moore said: “Wearing masks and face coverings in certain areas is playing a vital part in keeping ourselves and others safe from Coronavirus.

“The vast majority of people have been following the new rules on face coverings and I thank them for doing so, and for disposing of their masks properly.

“Unfortunately, I have been informed of masks thrown away on pavements outside supermarkets; around bus stops; in parks; and on our sea front.

“Whilst we are all likely to need to wear masks for the foreseeable future, we equally don’t want to see these masks polluting our environment.

“I would remind residents in Southport to please dispose of your face coverings responsibly and use the bins provided.”

Plenty of DNA in the face masks to be used as evidence,if anyone is seen chucking them on the ground..then the offenders could very easily be prosecuted if caught.

Originally Posted by SteveandLois

Plenty of DNA in the face masks to be used as evidence,if anyone is seen chucking them on the ground..then the offenders could very easily be prosecuted if caught.

Great idea, the only potential problem would be with whether the ‘owner’ has their details on the DNA database.

Cost for the testing of the masks may be a lot, but I’d have no problems if these costs were added to any fines.

I honestly think that most masks that you see on the pavement, (just like the one in the photograph) have been dropped by accident. It is very easy to accidentally pull one out of a pocket as you take something else out and not notice. It has happened to me and I have seen it happen to others. I am speaking of those, as illustrated, that are in splendid isolation and looking forlorn, lost and lonely, not those screwed up and grubby hiding in a corner.