Hoodies, helmets or ski masks that cover the face are now banned in Romford as part of a crackdown on anti-social behaviour.

The new rules, formed out of a collaboration between Havering Council, police and businesses, came into force today (April 18).

These stakeholders claimed that the measures were necessary to tackle a rise in anti-social behaviour in the area.

They said that the rules would also apply to delivery drivers, but that the wearing of face coverings for health or religious reasons would still be permitted.

Councillor Ray Morgon, leader of Havering Council, said: “We work closely with all our partners in looking at how we can help make the borough safer to live, work, visit and go to school in.

“We want to look at ways in which we can work towards the prevention of anti-social behaviour and reducing it.

“Making our residents and visitors feel safer will also help encourage them to shop locally and help our businesses thrive.”

Posters have been put up around the town to inform people of the new rules, and the security teams in Romford’s shopping centres, including The Liberty, The Brewery, The Mercury and Romford Shopping Hall, have been briefed on the changes.

Anyone found to break the rule will be escorted from the premises immediately, and police will be called if necessary.

Julie Frost, Romford Business Improvement District (BID) director, said: “I really hope that this initiative makes visitors feel safer - knowing throughout the town there are measures in place to deter anti-social behaviour and prevent crime.

“Working together we are determined to restore people’s confidence and ensure the town is a welcoming and enjoyable place to live, work and visit.”

Tom Stobbart, The Liberty manager, said: “Anti-social behaviour has a detrimental impact on our communities, making people feel unsafe in their neighbourhoods.

“We are working together to instigate change and hopefully get to the causes of some anti-social behaviour and help prevent some crimes from happening.”