‘The time has come to draw a line’ – police warn of consequences for those who break covid-19 rules

The Deputy Chief Constable, Terry Woods, has warned of stiff consequences for those who break the restrictions in place to control Covid-19.

As the ‘Rule of Six’ comes into force on Monday, Preston is one of the worst areas in the country for spikes in the virus.

On Wednesday, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said gaterings of more than six people will be banned indoors and outdoors from Monday, after figures showed a steep rise in the rates of infection.

DCC Woods addressed Lancashire today, warning: “Those people who flout the regulations can expect a consequence.”

He said anyone who does not quarantine after they return from holiday can expect a £1,000 fine – with one fine already having been issued in Chorley.

Organisers of illegal events can expect fines of up to £10,000 – with Lancashire Police already issuing one such fine in the county.

Anyone gathering in groups of more than six people can, from Monday, expect to be fined up to £100 each.

DCC Woods said: “The time has now come to draw a line, where that behaviour is completely unacceptable.”

The virus is rising particularly rapidly in younger people, with the rule of six coming into place as universities gear up for the new academic year.

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