Over the Bank Holiday period, Devon and Cornwall police undertook a proactive policing approach in Sidmouth and the surrounding area, in support of the nation's collective effort to reduce the spread of Covid-19.

As part of this operation, local teams undertook increased high-visibility patrols which included carrying out over 4,000 visits to beauty spots and businesses across the region.

Officers spoke with over 5,500 people during these targeted patrols across four days and 960 people were given verbal warnings for failing to follow the guidance.

Police confirmed that a minimum of 169 people were issued with fines over the Easter weekend, however approximately a quarter of these were to people living outside of Devon and Cornwall.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said: "We shared the concern of our communities that a small number of people continued to breach the restrictions and were putting lives at risk.

"Our approach was to speak with people and I am really pleased that these figures show a proportionate response.

"With around three per cent of these checks resulting in enforcement, we believe this shows that our officers used enforcement proportionately and as a last resort.

"We all wanted to enjoy the weather this weekend, but thankfully our beauty spots continue to remain noticeably quieter which shows that the vast majority of the public are taking government guidance seriously.

"We have seen a slight increase in traffic on the roads, but our road-side checks are establishing that the majority of these who are on our roads are undertaking essential travel.

"I understand the appeal for people to go out, but we need to keep to the restrictions.

"The signs are that they are having an impact so we all need to do our part to reduce the strain on our NHS as this will ultimately save lives.

"Policing with the support of our communities is our priority and we will continue to use discretion and only use enforcement as appropriate.

"I also want to thank the hard work of partners and volunteers who over the Bank Holiday weekend supported our activities.

"This included patrols on the beaches and moors to explain to people the importance of the restrictions.

"I would also like to recognise the vast number of other key workers who have also worked incredibly hard, ensuring our core services have continued to deliver.

"Naturally, the Coronavirus is at the forefront of our mind, but I want to reassure our communities that we continue to undertake everyday policing; we are still answering over 650 999 calls a day, still responding to incidents and still tackling crime and protecting the vulnerable across Devon.

"My message to the public is that we are here for you.

"Finally I would like to thank the public for your continued support and understanding during this challenging time.

"The messages we have received across social media and comments from the public during our interactions show how difficult we all finding it, but how well we are all adapting."