MEMBERS of the public are being reminded that Covid-19 restrictions remain in place this weekend and everyone should continue to take personal responsibility for social distancing.

Following the announcement that many restrictions will be lifted on July 4, Wiltshire Police is encouraging people to not only continue to follow the current guidelines over the coming week, but also be sensible and responsible with their behaviour over the coming months.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: "A number of incidents nationally, including the situation at the beaches on the coast in Dorset, have highlighted the requirement to emphasise the continued need for us all to be sensible and adhere to social distancing.

"I know the media has been reporting the Government's latest announcement, that we will soon see pubs and restaurants reopen and will be able to spend more time with friends and loved ones.

"However, it is important to note that this lifting of restrictions does not happen until 4 July, so the current situation remains the same - the same restrictions are in place as they were last week and the week before.

"The Government has made it clear that we will only be able to enjoy these new freedoms if we are responsible with them. If cases begin to rise again, then we could very well see ourselves back in lockdown, so I urge everyone to use personal responsibility and behave in a way which will keep us all safe."

On Wednesday and Thursday tens of thousands of daytrippers descended on Bournemouth beach to take advantage of the hot and sunny weather.

Due to the sheer volume of people on the beach at the same time social distancing was almost impossible. 

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Jerry Herbert added: "The situation in other parts of the country, including in London and in Dorset, serves as a stark reminder that we cannot be complacent.

"It is clear that as more restrictions are lifted, there will be a temptation for people to ignore social distancing and believe that their summer can return to normal. This is not the case.

"Everyone needs to continue to play their part in preventing the spread of Covid-1, so we do not see the second spike in infections that we are all so concerned about."