Aylesbury locals urged to follow lockdown restrictions from Thames Valley Police

Aylesbury's Superintendent says enforcement of lockdown restrictions will be used as a last resort.

Aylesbury residents are being urged to follow lockdown restrictions, as Thames Valley Police are granted enforcement powers through new legislation.

Superintendent Mike Loebenberg says enforcement will be the last resort for Aylesbury residents who breach lockdown:

"Firstly we will engage with the public, explain what is required and encourage compliance.

"Where is is necessary we will use enforcement powers available to us.

"For me that is about where there may be blatant or repeated disregard for the rules that are in place."

"It is really important that people know we are still here to serve the public."

A national lockdown came into force as of midnight, and although similar to the first one in March 2020 there are some differences.

For example, playgrounds will remain open, support bubbles that were introduced in summer can continue and you can exercise at a safe distance with one person outside your household.

However, Mike says its important people still contact TVP if they need them:

"If people need us, particularly in circumstances where they may be suffering abuse at home, it is really important they do contact us.

"We will absolutely still come and provide them with the necessary safeguarding and support.

"And a reminder that leaving your home in order to keep safe, such as to escape domestic violence or abuse, is absolutely permitted within the rules."

• thames valley police
• superintendent mike loebenberg