MORE than 800 fixed penalty notices were issued by Dorset Police between March 27 and May 14, to those breaching Covid-19 restrictions.

Now lockdown measures have altered, with guidance confirming the public can spend more time outside, responsibilities for police officers have changed.

Police were told on May 13, in fresh guidelines issued by the College of Policing and the National Police Chiefs, that they have no powers to enforce two-metre social distancing in England.

Dorset Police chief constable James Vaughan said the relaxing of restrictions should not be treated as a “green light” for tourists wanting to visit the county however, and urges the public to “use common sense” when planning trips and time outside.

He said:“We enforce the law and not Government guidance or advice, so we have no role to play in enforcing social distancing, the wearing of masks or avoiding public transport.

“We still have a responsibility where people are gathering in large groups with those not in their household, as this is not legally permitted in the regulations.

“I have no doubt that the fact we are now able to spend much more time outdoors will be welcomed by everyone. Now each of us will need to take personal responsibility for doing that, within the restrictions set out by the Government.

“The public is being asked to think and do the right thing.”

Talking about the force’s power going forward, Mr Vaughan said: “We will use common sense and discretion to determine what’s reasonable [regarding gatherings]. Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the regulations and guidance and encourage people to follow what is being asked of them. Enforcement is a very last resort.”

According to the chief constable, officers will continue “concentrating on the crimes that matter the most”, including targeting county lines drug gangs, ensuring children and young people are safe online, tackling speeding and responding to reports of anti-social behaviour.

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