Police thank Nottinghamshire residents for their part in helping stop the spread of coronavirus

Nottinghamshire’s Chief Constable, Craig Guildford, said: “These are unprecedented and uncertain times for us all, but we have all stepped up and this has meant more lives have been saved and will continue to be saved locally.

“The vast majority of the public has followed the guidance and helped to prevent the spread of the virus.

"However, the infection is now spreading rapidly once again, including across our neighbourhoods.

"We will not allow those who do not follow the rules to reverse the hard won progress made by the majority who do.

“More changes have been announced by the Government with guidance to prevent the spread of the virus to now be put into law. This includes extending legal obligations to businesses regarding Covid-secure guidelines and increasing fines for not wearing face masks.

“That is why I want to take the opportunity to once again reassure the public around the steps that Nottinghamshire Police is taking to help keep people safe throughout this crisis.

“We will work with the guidance and new laws as soon as they are passed and will work with local authorities and licensees around changes to closing times of bars, pubs and restaurants.

“We will continue to take a proportionate approach, but we are not afraid to act if people deliberately flout the rules and recklessly put other people’s lives in danger.

"We proved we mean business with the fines handed to a resident and to a student in two separate cases, both for holding house parties despite warnings not to.

“I have always been very clear that we police by consent and this will always be how we operate. Our job is to serve you – the public.

“Most people absolutely get their personal responsibilities, and are being sensible, compassionate and considerate.

"We want to ensure everyone understands what part they have to play in keeping us all safe.

“It is an individual responsibility to abide by the scientific advice and to keep their distance, to remain at home wherever possible and to follow the guidance that has been given.”

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