POLICE have thanked the vast majority of Wiltshire communities for adhering to the latest Government guidelines over the Easter bank holiday.

They said that by staying at home this Easter, residents helped support the NHS and save lives.

Although a small number of arrests were made and a small amount of fixed penalty notices were issued in connection with breaches to the restrictions, these were in the minority.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “Most people in our county took the right action over this bank holiday weekend – they compiled with the guidelines which are there to protect life.

“I was impressed to see most of our streets empty and, when I did see people out and about, they were adhering to the social distancing measures in place.

“I fully appreciate that people are feeling fatigued by these restrictions and, coupled with the beautiful weather we had over the bank holiday, I’m sure many would have preferred to have been out meeting with friends and family but we all have a role to play.

“As we enter the fourth week of these measures, I know that the vast majority of people in Wiltshire and Swindon will continue to stay home, protect the NHS and therefore save lives.

“I would like to pay tribute to all the officers and staff who were working this weekend – ensuring that we were all safe and, when required, engaging with those who were not adhering to the guidance.

“Last week, the Queen spoke about the next generation looking back at how we have dealt with this national health emergency and I would ask everyone; what are you going to do to ensure you can look back with pride?”From Friday to Monday inclusive, police issued 29 FPNs – meaning they have issued 72 since the new policing powers were introduced.

They received more than 700 calls and online reports regarding information or incidents linked to Coronavirus. However, only a very small proportion of these required an immediate police response.

Police and Crime Commissioner for Wiltshire and Swindon Angus Macpherson said: “I had full confidence that most of the people in our community would do the right thing over the bank holiday and I am pleased to see this was the case."

“I understand the frustrations some might be feeling at having to abide by these restrictions but it is for the greater good.

"By staying at home and reducing your contact with those outside of your home, you are joining the national effort to slow the spread of this virus which has claimed more than 10,000 people already.

“I echo the thanks from the Deputy Chief Constable to every police officer or member of staff and every other emergency service worker who were working hard this bank holiday whilst the rest of us relaxed at home.

“Finally, I would urge you all to continue to adhere to the very latest Government guidance – quite simply; the more of us who do this, the more lives will be saved.”

For the latest Government guidance, visit www.gov.uk