Face-to-face visitors were welcomed to Mendip District Council's offices in Shepton Mallet this week.

Residents who felt the need to talk to staff in person found the council campus doors open once more, albeit operating limited hours from 10am until 2pm, Monday to Friday, to ensure a Covid-secure environment.

Staff set up a "meet and greet" system at the main entrance assessing and directing enquiries to ensure visitors were seen quickly and efficiently.

Masks were requested, unless medically exempt, and two-metres social distancing from other visitors and staff remains in force at the offices. Additional cleaning regimes are taking place within these public spaces each day.

Once Covid rates settle, the council's opening hours will be extended further. However, with variants still circulating in communities, customers are encouraged to contact Mendip online or by telephone in the first instance.

Many of Mendip's services easily allow residents to self-serve online – where you can request, report or check information.

Mendip has also has a contact centre open five days a week to help with queries. Call 0300 303 8588 Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5pm.

If you are contacting out of hours, and your call is an emergency, select option 4, then option 5. Local rate call tariffs apply.