Face masks are now mandatory in enclosed public spaces – and here is where in Colchester Zoo you will be required to wear one.

Coverings are now compulsory in supermarkets, indoor shopping centres, transport hubs, banks and post offices.

At Colchester Zoo, visitors will be required to wear face coverings when entering The Outpost gift shop, the guest services office or in any of the attraction’s catering outlets.

A spokesman said: “We also encourage you to wear face coverings throughout your visit especially within indoor areas.”

Following government guidelines, those not required to wear facemasks include:

  • Young children under the age of 11.
  • Those not able to put on, wear or remove a face covering because of a physical or mental illness or impairment, or disability.
  • If putting on, wearing or removing a face covering will cause you severe distress.
  • If you are travelling with or providing assistance to someone who relies on lip reading to communicate.
  • To avoid harm or injury, or the risk of harm or injury, to yourself or others.
  • To eat or drink, but only if you need to.
  • To take medication.

The zoo will also permit people to remove face coverings when required to do so by shop staff for age identification.

Face coverings can also be removed to help with communication, while masks are available for visitors to purchase in exchange for a small donation.