Police recorded more than 300 illegal gatherings in Greater Manchester in just one weekend

They issued 24 fixed penalty notices across the county at the weekend, which included the third gathering at a property in North Manchester, a gathering of more than 40 people in Stockport and one with 60 to 70 people in Tameside.

Police also issued a closure notice at a property in Trafford after receiving multiple reports of an illegal gathering and anti-social behaviour.

This came just before new national restrictions which mean people must not meet in groups of more than six, either indoors and outdoors.

While this new rule applies to Wigan, many other areas of Greater Manchester are subject to tighter restrictions on meeting people from other households due to more cases of coronavirus.

Greater Manchester Police's Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey said: "Though Greater Manchester has been subject to local restrictions since the end of July, we understand that the news of additional national restrictions for England and additional local restrictions for Bolton is disappointing.

"Greater Manchester is in a unique position and we are aware of the difficulties that restrictions can cause. That being said, restrictions are necessary to fight Covid-19 and we all have a personal responsibility to comply to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the deadly virus.

"The demand on GMP has now returned to the pre-Covid level. As a result, it is essential that people comply with the restrictions to reduce the number of breaches which officers have to respond to. If you believe someone is breaching the regulations, and it is not an emergency, please report this via our website. Officers will assess the scale of the breach before attending.

"Throughout the pandemic, GMP has been policing by consent. Officers will continue to prioritise engaging with people, explaining the restrictions and encouraging compliance going forwards. However, people across Greater Manchester should be aware that, when necessary, officers will take enforcement action.

"If you are unsure of what you can and cannot do, it is essential you read the relevant guidance on the Government's website."

Any breaches of the restrictions can be reported to the police at www.gmp.police.uk/tua/tell-us-about/c19/tell-us-about-possible-breach-coronavirus-measures/