Face masks become the fastest-selling item in Co-op stores as rules making them mandatory are poised to come into effect

More people are buying up the protective equipment than they are purchasing pints of milk, the retail giant has said

Face coverings have become the fastest selling product in Co-op stores, with more customers purchasing the protective masks than pantry essentials like milk.

The retailer reported a huge surge in demand for the items as a result of the Covid-19 crisis, as well as the announcement of new rules making the wearing of face coverings mandatory on public transport and in hospitals.

The supermarket chain started selling the non-medical coverings at the end of May across its 2,600 stores.