As the sun shone over the weekend visitors to Norfolk’s coastal areas attracted unwanted visitors. A large number of people who travelled to Wells & Hunstanton were given fixed penalty notices. in total 160 people were fined for breaching lockdown rules not only on the coast but for hosting house parties too. People had travelled from as far as Leicestershire, London, Essex, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire.
Lockdown measures remain in place, with a requirement for people to stay at home, only leaving for a reasonable excuse. T/Assistant Chief Constable Julie Wvendth said: “We have seen a number of blatant breaches this weekend, many by people who live outside of the county who have travelled to coastal areas. A combination of better weather, lockdown fatigue and the impending easing of restrictions will no doubt influence some people’s behaviour. “However, the ‘stay at home’ rule remains in place and while the roadmap out of lockdown offers new confidence, we still need to take action now to get us there.” Dr Louise Smith, Norfolk’s Director of Public Health, said: “Most people in Norfolk have done an excellent job of respecting the rules so far and have played a key part in the fall in infections rates we’re seeing now. It is important that we keep to the rules and stay local to keep numbers of cases down. I know most people will, but where they don’t – I support the police in taking enforcement action.” Cllr Andrew Proctor, Chair of the Norfolk Engagement Board and Leader of Norfolk County Council, said: “The rules are clear – we must stay in our local area for most things including exercise, in order to curb the spread of the virus. The Prime Minister has set out a clear roadmap for the coming months and we need everyone in Norfolk to pull together in that time to keep the number of cases low. Now is not the time to ignore the restrictions that are in place for the protection of everyone locally and nationally.” |