COVID-19 marshals are set to take to the streets of Redditch as part of new plans to tackle the spread of coronavirus in the county.

A new team of up to 20 marshals will be out and about in the county to support communities, offering advice, sharing the most up-to-date government guidance and supporting businesses as they work to keep everyone safe.

Marshals will be given full training and protective equipment before going out onto high streets, estates and tourist hotspots to offer guidance to people on how to stay safe during the pandemic.

They will help ensure businesses keep sanitising stations and information points regularly cleaned and replenished, and remind people of the best routes through one-way systems in shopping areas.

The team will also be speaking to people on nights out, encouraging social distancing and reminding residents of the rules.

Councillor John Smith, chairman of Worcestershire’s Health and Wellbeing Board, said: “The advisors are here to guide and inform everyone amid the difficult times we are facing.

“It’s not always easy to understand the rules and guidance so our friendly team will be on hand to help support people and businesses.

“We all want the restrictions to remain low in Worcestershire and we can only do that if we work together.”

The salary for the role will be between £20,903 and £23,080 a year and the closing date for applications is Friday, November 6.

The Covid advisor roles have been created in partnership with the county’s district councils and Worcestershire County Council thanks to funding from central government.

Simon Wilkes, head of regulatory services for Worcestershire Regulatory Services, said: “The district councils have decided to pool their funding for this work so that we can target the areas of the county where support is needed most.

“Staff will be on hand in an advisory role only. Their focus will be on helping people to comply with the rules, reminding them of their obligations and assisting businesses with interpreting what is expected.

“Our team are here to help so feel free to say hello and ask questions if you are unsure of anything when you see them in your street.”

To apply visit wmjobs.co.uk/job/84170/covid-marshall.