'F***ing a***hole!": Customer’s vile outburst at Sheffield bakery after being told to wear a mask

The Forge Bakehouse in Abbeydale Road, Nether Edge says that staff are having to tell customers to wear face coverings on a daily basis – and are being subjected to insults and abuse by those who refuse to comply.

In a Facebook post urging customers to follow the rules, bosses said: “It is now nearly 6 weeks since face coverings became mandatory in shops in the UK, yet we still spend all day asking customers to wear a mask, and multiple times each day receive eye rolls, huffs and puffs or full blown verbal abuse like yesterday's 'you f**king a***hole, you are conspiring with the government'.

"This is not acceptable.

"Staff are employed to make and serve food, not to ask others to respect their right to a safer working environment. Whatever your view on masks, we don't really care, follow the rules or please do not come.”

Customers were quick to praise the shop for its stance.

Erica Mitchell-Packington wrote: “Wow. I’m so so sorry that these idiots are doing this. How hateful that a small measure to protect everyone has been weaponised in a culture war. Caring about other people is a good thing, a mask is an expression of social consideration.”

Fran Haddock wrote: “So so disappointing for you. The mask conspiracy thing is ridiculous. You’ve been amazing during the whole pandemic and I only wish I lived closer so I could come support you more.”

Claire Prendergast added: “Sorry to hear this - I really appreciate all the hard work which you and other local businesses are doing to adjust and keep going in such a changing and demanding environment. You really don't need this kind of abuse on top of everything.”

Joy Hardy posted: “You certainly shouldn’t accept customers who abuse the staff or other customers. No matter their opinion on the matter. It’s like not wearing a seatbelt in a car...it may be uncomfortable, but get used to it, it could save lives!”