VIDEO: Police and Crime Commissioner tells people to adhere to coronavirus lockdown measures

With some people warning of the potential for 'lockdown fatigue' to set in and lead people to flout the restrictions in place to halt the spread of Covid-19, Lancashire's Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw has said that while many people will be free to enjoy days off over the weekend, people should not be having days out.

Given the county's countryside and coastline, there are concerns that such places may become much busier over Easter weekend and unnecessarily waste police time when key workers are needed to fight crime rather than deter day-trippers and local residents from popular beauty spots.

“I’m urging residents and those who may have plans to travel this weekend to stay at home," said Mr Grunshaw. "Do not make our county any more vulnerable to this virus and please do not put any unnecessary strain on our emergency workers.

"I know this is a frightening time for people and we understand the huge sacrifices people are already making, but it's important to remember that our country is currently facing one of the biggest challenges in its history and we all have a responsibility to protect our communities," he added.

Insisting that new policing powers will only be used as 'a last resort' and that police will instead be engage with people in an attempt to educate them, Mr Grunshaw continued: “People found ignoring police advice are putting themselves and others in danger. Now is the time for each and every one of us to take responsibility for our own actions.

"Please stick to the government rules and only leave the house if it’s for one of the reasons set out," he said. "Ask yourself is this journey I am planning essential? Stay close to home to exercise and if you need to drive, only drive a reasonable distance.

“The weeks and months ahead will be the toughest we have faced for a long, long time. I’m proud of how the majority of residents in Lancashire have adapted to this crisis and I want to see us all continuing to stay at home. It is making a difference.”