South Yorkshire Police vows to take action against those who flout lockdown rules

People can now only lave their homes for four reasons – to exercise once a day, for essential food supplies, for medical needs and to travel to work if absolutely necessary.

The lockdown is the lastest measure aimed at reducing the spread of coronavius, which, as of yesterday, had claimed 335 lives.

In response to the government announcement, South Yorkshire’s Chief Constable, Stephen Watson, said: “We are all now being enlisted, not to fight in a war, but to play a very small but crucial role in the fight against Covid-19.

“Whilst we may face unprecedented times, it does not require great bravery and courage.

“All that is required of you is to stay at home and to cherish some time with those closest to you. In doing so, we are protecting the vulnerable and the elderly, many of whom have given more than this to protect us.”

He added: “I fully anticipate the public of South Yorkshire will want to adhere to these restrictions, many already are. We will continue to work closely with our communities to ensure people know what is required of them. We will inform, encourage and support.

“However where we find people are not willing to comply, we will move to enforcement once we understand the detail of the legislation as it becomes available to us. This will be a last, but in some cases necessary, resort.

“I want to reassure you that we are well equipped to deal with this.

“We have recently increased our neighbourhood policing capacity and will keep officers in their communities wherever possible. We will not withdraw our front line and will remain here for you throughout.

“Please listen to your local officers, they are leaving their own loved ones night and day to keep you safe. They ask very little of you, please support them in supporting the NHS.”

Figures released by Public Health England show there are now 6,650 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the UK – up from 4,792 on Sunday.