Dozens of North East day trippers hit with coronavirus fines for visiting North Yorkshire

Signs in the Malham area of the Yorkshire Dales ask visitors to stay away following the March 23 coronavirus lockdown. Picture Tony Johnson

New figures released by North Yorkshire Police show nearly 100 fixed penalty notices were issued to Cleveland and County Durham residents alone before the pandemic restrictions were eased earlier this week.

As of Monday, May 11, the force had issued 926 fines starting from £60 in connection with 509 unnecessary journeys following the March 23 lockdown.

While West Yorkshire visitors accounted for the highest number of penalties (273), Cleveland was second (64) and County Durham fourth (30).

Humberside was second (44) with Lancashire fifth (24).

Assistant Chief Constable Mike Walker has reminded visitors of their responsibilities as the first weekend approaches since the Government allowed day trips.

He said the majority of public toilets, cafes and shops would still be closed and added: “I know that the vast majority of people will use their common sense, will want to keep themselves and their families safe and will follow the restrictions to the letter.

“But the minority who choose not to should be aware that the fines under the regulations have now increased to £100.

“Although my officers do not want to use their enforcement powers if they don’t have to, it’s right that they’re able to take action against a minority who disregard the remaining restrictions and in doing so, put people at risk.”

The area where the most fines were issued, Craven (198), is home to Yorkshire Dales beauty spots such as Malham Tarn, Bolton Abbey and Ribblehead Viaduct.

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