Sun-worshippers will be forced to wear a face mask on the beach following the latest coronavirus crackdown in a holiday hotspot.
The latest tough restriction comes into force tomorrow on the Balearic Islands, which includes Majorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera, and police officers will enforce the strict new regulations.
The region is normally a favourite with UK holidaymakers but all non-essential overseas travel is currently banned by the various home nation authorities. However, sunseekers are hoping to finally get the green light for holidays later this summer.
Beaches in the Balearics had been mask-free but it will become compulsory to wear a face covering - even while sunbathing - and this rule is expected to remain throughout the summer.
Anyone over the age of six will have to wear a mask in any outdoor public place and police will patrol beaches to enforce the rule. The mask rule will remain even when social distancing is in place.
An official bulletin stated the rules would be enforced until the end of the pandemic. However, anyone with a relevant medical condition will be allowed to go without a face covering.
The mask ruling as part of a decree law introduced by the Balearic government to curb a rising number of coronavirus infections with added tougher restrictions for the Easter period.
Emergency legislation has been introduced that sets fines of up to 600,000 euros for very serious rule breaches, which includes holding parties that are not allowed or not respecting the capacity of a venue.
The region is one of the most popular destinations for UK tourists planning a break when travel restrictions are lifted.
