NICOLA Sturgeon has noted almost all Scots are following a new rule to wear face coverings in shops.

The First Minister announced last week that from Friday it would be compulsory to wear the items in all stores.

Taking to Twitter earlier today she underlined that there appeared to be "close to 100% compliance" with the policy which is aimed to stop the spread of the coronavirus - and urged Scots to "keep it up".

She wrote: "From both anecdotal feedback and my own observation from a quick visit to a couple of shops earlier, making face coverings mandatory has resulted in close to 100% compliance. Well done, Scotland - let’s keep it up."

The First Minister on Friday warned the law was likely to remain in force for the "forseeable future" and said she wanted wearing a face covering in a shop to feel as natural as wearing a seat belt in a car.

"The key here is for all of us as responsible citizens to do it because it's the right thing to do," the First Minister said. "The vast bulk of the population over almost four long, hard months have done the right thing at great personal cost and sacrifice and that's why we are where we are today, so let's keep doing the right things."

Although it is hoped that people will comply with the requirement voluntarily, police have the power to impose fines of up to £60, rising to up to £960 for repeat offenders.