Wiltshire Police pledge to continue with proactive patrols as lockdown eases
Plea to make sure you understand current restrictions
Last updated 29th Mar 2021
The latest step in the Goverment's roadmap out of lockdown has come into force today.
You can now meet outdoors including in private gardens in either a group of up to six people from different households or a group of two households of any size.
Outdoor sports facilities such as tennis and basketball courts, and open-air swimming pools, are also allowed to reopen, and people can take part in formally-organised outdoor sports.
The "stay at home" rule has now ended, but the guidance states that people should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.
Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills says the move is a "welcomed step" but people must remain 'cautious and sensible.'
"Firstly I want to say a huge thank you to our communities across Swindon and Wiltshire for the sacrifices they have made during this third national lockdown to help keep us all safe."
"We know the past three months have been very difficult for so many people, but the vast majority of our communities have played their part, sticking to the rules and limiting social contact with others. This has paid off and we have seen a significant reduction in the virus rates. "
"We will continue with our proactive patrols and encourage everyone to make themselves aware of what is and is not permitted. "
"Our policing approach will continue to focus on where there are blatant breaches of the regulations, with a specific focus on gatherings that exceed the permitted numbers or within a premises, and intelligence that indicates people are staying away from home. These are expressively prohibited under the ongoing restrictions and we know these types of events also pose the greatest risk to public health."
Meanwhile latest figures show that between the 22nd and 28th of March Wiltshire Police issued 26 fixed penalty notices for breaching Covid rules.
15 of those related to a party at business premises in Amesbury.
It brings the overall FPNs issued by the force to 844.
You can read the updated Government guidance and restrictions here: www.gov.uk/coronavirus