Police confirm why helicopter has been out above Sheffield during coronavirus lockdown

Over recent weeks police helicopters have been seen frequently across the county, with some residents believing they are involved in patrols of the county to check that lockdown measures are being adhered to.

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Police officers have the power to enforce lockdown rules, including arrest and fines, and motorists are being stopped across the county to check why they are out of their homes.

But in a statement, South Yorkshire Police said: “The helicopter is not being deployed in the manner you suggest, or in fact routinely to monitor the lockdown.“I understand the temptation to link everything to Covid but there is no link in this case.”

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Under the lockdown rules, people can only leave home for food shopping, medical appointments or supplies, for exercise once a day and for essential travel to work.

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