'Disappointing' to see people break lockdown rules as police issue 135 fixed penalty notices

The majority of the fines were given to people meeting those from other households, with 90 issued for indoor gatherings of two people or more and 14 for more than two people meeting in public.

While the coronavirus restrictions eased last Monday, with the reopening of schools and two people from different households being able to meet socially outdoors, other Government restrictions to apply.

Another reason for fixed penalty notices being issued was people travelling to Manchester Airport to wave a friend or relative off, which is not allowed under current legislation.

Superintendent Chris Downey said: "I was working this weekend and covering all Covid-related incidents. It was really disappointing to see the number of people breaching the regulations even though we are still in a national lockdown.

"We absolutely understand the frustrations felt - many people are now having a second birthday in lockdown, many have had to wait a year for wedding celebrations and more - but we are all so close to being able to celebrate with friends and loved ones without worry of a financial penalty, which can often be £800 or more. We don't want to have to give anyone a fixed penalty notice, especially in the current situation, however when we are faced with a clear breach of the rules, we unfortunately have to take enforcement action in an effort to protect people.

"There was some slight easing to restrictions last week, however the date for the next step is subject to change based on the level of infection rates. If the regulations are not adhered to this could increase the spread of Covid, meaning the date is pushed back for everyone. We all want to get out of lockdown, but we need to work together to make sure we continue to do our bit."

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