The policy on mask wearing at hospitals in Christchurch, Bournemouth and Poole has changed.

University Hospitals Dorset has issued an update to their policy, which came into effect on Thursday.

A spokesperson said: "We’re pleased to be able to update our guidance for visitors on the wearing of facemasks and face coverings in our hospitals, following the latest national guidelines.

Read more: Dorset surgery asks patients to wear masks as Covid rises

"Masks are now no longer required in ‘public’ areas in our hospitals, including entrances, waiting areas, corridors and restaurants, from today (18 August).

"Staff, outpatients and visitors who choose to continue to wear masks (or due to a risk assessment) should still do so, and we will keep providing masks at our entrances for this purpose.

"If you have an outpatient appointment or are visiting a ward, please take a mask from here to put on in these areas if you do not already have one.

"Mask wearing currently remains in place in all inpatient (ward) areas, as well as in clinic rooms and in our urgent and emergency care settings, eg our emergency departments, urgent treatment centres and same day emergency care (SDEC) facilities.

Read more: University Hospitals Dorset chiefs reviewing face mask policy

"Masks will continue to be required for patients with suspected Covid-19, where they are tolerated and clinically safe to wear.

"We ask everyone to continue to follow good hand hygiene practices, including the regular use of hand gel, and to stay away from our hospitals if any symptoms of Covid-19 are present."