Staffordshire Police will 'take action where necessary' to enforce coronavirus rule of six

Gareth Morgan, the most senior officer at Staffordshire Police, said officers would be out on the streets encouraging people to "act responsibly" in line with the new rules which come into force on Monday.

But he said officers had rarely had to enforce the rules since lockdown was imposed in March, and that he hoped people would respect the latest guidelines.

People will not be able to meet in groups of more than six as part of measures aimed at halting the alarming increase in Covid-19 cases across the country, mainly among young people.

Mr Morgan said: "As we are seeing both nationally and closer to home, coronavirus continues to be a real threat to communities and our way of life.

“It is vitally important that we all follow the regulations and restrictions in place which include social distancing and increased hygiene measures, as well as those covering social gatherings which will be limited to six people both indoors and outside.

“This continues to be a joint effort between the people of Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent and all partners including local businesses, and I want to again thank the vast majority of the public who are continuing to follow these rules.

“Officers will continue to be out in communities - engaging, explaining and encouraging people to act responsibly. We will take enforcement action where necessary but the efforts of the public over the past few months have meant police officers have rarely had to enforce the Government regulations here in Staffordshire and I continue to be grateful for the approach of so many people who have heeded previous messages – thank you.

"I am confident the vast majority will continue to do as asked and follow the latest guidance on gatherings as we work together to control the virus and keep people safe.”