ScotRail estimates that around 40 per cent of Fifers travelling on trains are not covering their face.

The alarming statistic has made the train operator issue a warning urging passengers to take more responsibility for their safety, and the safety of others, when on board.

It has been mandatory to wear a face covering on public transport from June 22 and, since then, ScotRail said most passengers have complied with the requirement.

David Simpson, ScotRail operations director, said: “While it’s encouraging to see that most people across the country are following the requirement and covering their face when travelling, we need everyone to take personal responsibility for their travel choices.

“The mandatory wearing of face coverings helps keep you, your fellow customers, and our people safe.

“We’ll continue to do everything we can to help you get used to the changes in rail travel and that’s why we are providing face masks at our busiest stations for a limited time.

“Please only travel if your journey is absolutely necessary and be prepared with your own face covering over the coming weeks and months ahead.”

A limited supply of free face coverings is available at more than 20 of the busiest stations across Scotland until the end of this week, and more than 20,000 masks have been given away to help people get used to the new normal for rail travel.

ScotRail has also issued five rules for safer travel: do not travel if you feel unwell or have a temperature; travel away from the main commuting times; if you think it’s not safe to board a train then be patient and wait for another service; wear a face mask; and maintain physical distancing.

Passengers should expect an increase in the time it takes to buy a ticket at a station and board a train and it's advised that buying tickets in advance through the ScotRail app or website will help reduce waiting times.