READERS have had varied reactions to the news that a pensioner with COPD was challenged for not wearing a mask in Tesco.

80-year-old Michael Penfold was shopping in Tesco on Monday when a fellow customer asked him where his face covering was.

The incident came just days after he was refused entry to a fish and chip shop in Paignton, Devon, whilst on holiday last week.

Michael says that he "can't breathe" when he wears a mask, and has called for more awareness that not everyone is able to wear a face mask, and for some form of identification so people do not assume he is flagrantly breaking the rules.

The story has sparked debate on social media, with dozens of readers weighing in with mixed opinions on whether the shopper was right to challenge Michael.

Steve Kemp was one of those who commented on Facebook, saying: "As it stands you are required to wear a face covering, rightly so some are exempt from this requirement, but everybody has a right to politely challenge surely?

"It's not personal."

Replying, Sue Baggs stated: "I for one can't always wear a mask and it's no one's business. This man shouldn't have to explain to everyone."

Kelly Fellows agreed, who commented: "No one has a right to challenge him or anyone else for that matter.

"Masks have created nothing more than government-backed bullying. Everyone should worry about themselves, and keeping themselves masked up and regular hand washing."

Trevor John Owen added: "You do not have the right to challenge someone not wearing a mask, it is for the police to sort out.

"People should not judge anyone not wearing a mask there may be a good reason for not wearing one. I know a few people that are exempt and have valid reasons."

Cian Hume said that you should be able to go to your GP surgery for some sort of exemption card, based on your medical record: "The fact that people who simply don't want to wear a mask can saunter around with an exemption car disavows all trust and social responsibility."

But Kieran Herriott disagreed and said: "Simple, just tell them to mind their own business and carry on with your day."

Andy Silver said: "There's nothing wrong to challenge, no matter how old you are. [I] don't think being an OAP automatically makes you exempt.

"It's perfectly acceptable to challenge, and there are perfectly [acceptable] excuses."

He went on to add: "Unless you're allergic to masks, personally I think we should all be wearing one if we're going to combat this virus."

What are your thoughts on this story? Was the customer right to challenge Michael? Or should she have minded her own business? Let us know your views by emailing newsdesk@basingstokegazette.co.uk.