Police to ramp up Easter patrols as families are urged to ‘Stay Home and Save Lives’

Lancashire Police said officers will be on high-visibility patrol around the county this Easter and will be quizzing both motorists and those on foot about their activities.

The ramping up of patrols comes as Lancashire remains the worst affected area in the North West for coronavirus.

With more than 1,000 people testing positive, the county has recorded twice as many confirmed cases as Liverpool and three times as many as Manchester.

But Lancashire Police said it will take a "common sense and proportionate approach" and will only use enforcement as a 'last resort'.

The force has recently come under fire over its handling of new powers to enforce the Covid-19 lockdown after it issued 123 fines in its first weekend (March 28/29).

But as Lancashire continues to battle the outbreak, police are urging people to stay at home to help prevent the disease spreading further.

Head of local policing, Chief Superintendent Sam Mackenzie, said: "We know it’s tough, especially at Easter, but it’s vital that people stick with the rules as they could risk spreading the virus at a time when it is vital to do all we can to contain it and prevent deaths.

"There are lots of nice places to visit in the county but they will still be there when all this is over, so for now, please do your bit and ask yourself is this journey I am planning or undertaking essential?

"Over the upcoming Easter weekend, it’s likely you will see our officers, who are there to keep you safe.

"Officers will be out and about across Lancashire and people should expect to see police both in towns and villages, along with popular places on the coast and inland.

"They will be taking a common sense and proportionate approach, speaking both motorists and those on foot, explaining the rules and encouraging people to follow them.

"Enforcement is a last resort but we will do this if we have no other option.

"If you are driving some distance to travel to beauty spots, you may well be turned back.

"Our advice is clear – please stick to the government rules and only leave the house if it’s for one of the reasons set out.

"By staying home you are protecting the NHS and saving lives.

"Lastly, we would like to thank to the vast majority of people in Lancashire who have been following the guidance, as you are really making a difference to our brave colleagues in the NHS and protecting the most vulnerable people in our communities."

Officers are also reminding people to only contact them if a police response is required.

"Please help us to help you by only calling us if you need the police," added Ch Supt Mackenzie.

"Think before dialling 101 and remember you can report non-emergency crimes or incidents quickly and easily via our website.

"Please don’t call us for advice on the government rules as the best place is on the government website: gov.uk/coronavirus."