Nearly 15,000 people had their say in a poll asking whether people should be fined for not wearing face masks on public transport.

The Watford Observer vote - which launched Friday afternoon and closed on Sunday - finished with 73 per cent in favour of the fines to 27 per cent against.

It comes as new rules were recently introduced meaning people who refuse to wear coverings on public transport could face fines of £200 and up.

Anyone who repeatedly flouts the rules could face a maximum charge of £6,400.

The poll sparked debate online with some voicing support while others slammed what they saw as double standards. 

One contributor wrote: "Absolute rubbish it's ok for the government to have a Christmas party last year do what they want but we have to play by the rules whatever I give up now."

Another claimed "masks are completely useless for viruses", adding: "It's all and only about power, control and enforced compliance.

"As for these fines, completely disproportionate."

But a reader in favour of the measures hit back: "If you're not spreading covid you're spreading half-truths and lies.

"Masks ARE effective (not 100%, but certainly not 0%), vaccines are effective (again not 100% but way above 0%)."

Read more: Watford man fined £1,100 for not wearing face mask

They added if everyone complied with the rules there wouldn't be a need for enforcement action.

A Watford man was recently fined £1,100 for not wearing a face covering without a reasonable excuse on a bus in Harrow.