Police praise public for observing distancing rules as Sutton town centre reopened for business

The operation, supported by Community Protection Officers from Ashfield District Council, took place on Monday and involved uniformed officers, PCSOs and officers in plain clothes patrolling the town centre, and the constant monitoring of CCTV.

Street marshalls also ensured that social distancing measures were adhered to and that people moved smoothly and safely around the town centre.

The operation was supported by a dispersal order giving police the power to move people out of the town centre if they were causing issues.

After closing in March due to concerns about the spread of coronavirus a number of shops started trading again with queues building outside town centre stores.

PC Lorna Sidebottom, Sutton town centre beat manager said “Officers and PCSOs from the Ashfield beat team, supported by staff from the council, have ensured that the re-opening of the town centre has passed without incident.

“Several members of the public have been engaged with us and this and it has been very positive all round. We have not had to use the dispersal power nor make any arrests”.

Inspector Mark Dickson (pictured) said “Yesterday has being a real positive day for Sutton town centre.

“It was great to see the shops open again and to learn of the great engagement between the public and those involved in the operation”.

Pictures show shoppers in Mansfield as businesses reopen