Police have been patrolling local beauty spots in Southport and Formby urging people to stay away, to stop the spread of Coronavirus.
It follows concerns after thousands of people flocked to Southport seafront and Formby Beach last weekend, ignoring Government advice that physical distancing was vital in the fight against Covid-19.
Sefton Council this week closed all coastal car parks in their bid to deter people, while the family which operates Southport Pier has closed the gates at the landmark.
A Sefton Police spokesman said: “Following reports on Thursday of numbers of people still continuing to head to local beauty spots in Southport and Formby, our local officers based at Southport Police Station patrolled these areas on Friday, to see how many people were out, and engage with people (from a safe distance) and emphasise the need to comply with the rules of staying at home, to reduce the spread of Coronavirus.
Police officers based at Southport Police Station have patrolled local beauty spots in Southport and Formby, urging people to stay at home to stop the spread of Coronavirus
“We found a reduction in the numbers of people around the beach and Pinewoods in Formby on Friday, Likewise around Southport Pier and the Marine Lake. We even checked that no swans had escaped!
“It is important people continue to take heed of the message to stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives.
“Please don’t let the good weather discourage you from following this vital advice this weekend. “Our officers on duty this weekend will be out in these areas again this weekend to speak with anyone who does arrive.
“Please remember, that you should only travel for essential journeys, such as food shopping, medical supplies and to deliver care packages.
Police officers based at Southport Police Station have patrolled local beauty spots in Southport and Formby, urging people to stay at home to stop the spread of Coronavirus
“Please do not travel to take your exercise.
“Keep runs and cycle rides local to your home address. You will literally help save lives by complying with these instructions.
“We will continue to be out and about the Southport and Formby area as usual over the weekend.”
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