Reports of 'neighbours breaching lockdown rules' and groups gathering in Morecambe and Lune Valley beauty spots are on the increase

There has been a considerable drop in all types of crime in the Lancaster district since the coronavirus lockdown began, but police are being kept busy with reports relating to breaching social distancing guidance.
By Nick Lakin
Published 28th Apr 2020, 13:45 BST
Updated 28th Apr 2020, 13:46 BST
There have been increased reports of groups gathering at the Crook O' LuneThere have been increased reports of groups gathering at the Crook O' Lune
There have been increased reports of groups gathering at the Crook O' Lune

Officers are also dealing with an increase in reports of motorcycles being used off road on public land and as a result a number have been seized.

Regulation 6 of the The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 states no person may leave the place where they live without a reasonable excuse.

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The National Police Chief's Council for England has issued guidance to officers about what is "likely to be reasonable" or not.Lancashire Police has also set up a new website where people can report any breaches of lockdown guidance, after police nationwide were given new powers to issue fines or make arrests where appropriate.

Morecambe Promenade.Morecambe Promenade.
Morecambe Promenade.

The form, which is HERE, asks for personal details and a report of the perceived breach.

Sergeant Lindsay Brown, Partnerships Officer for Lancaster & Morecambe said: "Unsurprisingly there’s a considerable drop in reported crime in all classification in Lancaster district since the lock down began.

"We have to acknowledge however that a proportion of crime may well be unreported due to the circumstances of the lockdown.

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"We are seeing an increasing number of reports relating to lack of social distancing for example reports of groups at local beauty spots such as the Crook O Lune and the Promenade at Morecambe.

The online form which can be filled out to report breaches of lockdown guidance.The online form which can be filled out to report breaches of lockdown guidance.
The online form which can be filled out to report breaches of lockdown guidance.

"Also members of the public reporting neighbours for perceived breaches of the lockdown.

"We have seen an increase of reports of motorcycles being used off road on public land and as a result a number have been seized.

"The majority of people continue to follow the government guidance and we continue to follow Engage with the public, Explain why it's important to follow the guidance and Encourage the public to continue taking the appropriate action.

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"If the public ignore that advice then we can Enforce where it is appropriate to do so."

Sergeant Brown said that overall "very few" fines for breaking the government's guidance have been issued so far in the Lancaster district.

He added: "We would encourage the people of the district to continue to follow the government guidance and STAY AT HOME – PROTECT THE NHS - SAVE LIVES."