Police urge people to ‘follow latest advice’ ahead of warm weekend

Police in the UK have warned that coronavirus remains a “real and deadly threat” and urged people to comply with the rules ahead of a weekend of warm and sunny weather.

Assistant Chief Constable Claire Nix of Kent Police said there would be an increased presence in “key areas” around the county and that enforcement would be used if necessary.

It comes as the Met Office forecasts a weekend of “largely dry, bright and fine” weather, which could see temperatures rise as high as 24C (75F).

“Kent has had a very good compliance rate when it comes to adhering to the national health advice around the coronavirus,” Ms Nix said.

“However, the Government has made it clear that the risk of increasing infections is too great to ignore and stricter social gathering rules have now come into effect to help keep everyone safe.

“Kent Police officers continue to engage, explain and encourage people to follow the latest advice and enforcement will be used as a last resort.

“There will be an increased presence in key locations around the county to ensure the current national advice is adhered to, such as preventing unlicensed music events and illegal gatherings.

“Officers will also continue to work with partner agencies such as local councils to make sure safety advice is respected in public spaces such as parks and beaches.

“Covid-19 remains a real and deadly threat and we all need to take responsibility for our actions in helping reduce the spread of the virus and ultimately save lives.”

It comes as further lockdown measures have been introduced in northern parts of England.

Liverpool is forecast to see highs of 19C (66F) on both Saturday and Sunday and stay bright and dry, as are parts of the North East, such as Newcastle, although the temperature will be cooler, sitting at around 15C (59F).

Ollie Claydon, a spokesperson for the Met Office, said that the warm weekend temperatures would come ahead of a more “unsettled” week of weather.

“We’re in for a dry and fine evening on Saturday, with clear conditions for central parts of the UK and northern Ireland,” he said.

“There’s a risk of showers but temperatures will stay high.

“But then a cold front from the north west around lunchtime on Monday will herald the arrival of cooler, more unsettled weather next week.”

Forces in Dorset, where large crowds have previously flocked to the beaches to enjoy the heat, also warned that anyone flouting the new “rule of six” over the weekend may be subject to fines.