FACE masks are no longer mandatory at Barnsley Hospital, it was announced on Thursday.

However, health bosses confirmed they may re-introduce the measures if there is a further surge of Covid cases in the area.

A spokesperson added: “Infection prevention control guidance has continued to evolve throughout the pandemic, and we are now making further changes.

“With immediate effect, we are no longer asking colleagues, patients and hospital visitors to wear masks at all times in clinical areas.

“However, we remain cautious because we might need to re-introduce mask-wearing if we see a resurgence of Covid cases in our community.

“Masks will still be required for people with confirmed or possible Covid, under a set of defined guidelines which we have shared with our staff.

“We accept that many people, colleagues and patients alike, may wish to continue to wear a mask as a personal choice, and we support people to do so.”