Spain clarifies rules on masks for exercise and beaches amid outcry

Government statement comes after widespread confusion, and criticism from tourism industry

• Coronavirus - latest updates
• See all our coronavirus coverage

Spanish health authorities have attempted to clarify the rules governing the use of facemasks amid growing confusion, dismay and worries about whether they need to be worn on beaches.

On Wednesday night, the government repeated its assurance that masks did not need to be worn during exercise, adding they would not be obligatory for those going swimming in pools, the sea, rivers, reservoirs or lakes either - as long as social distancing could be maintained.