This is how many fines were handed out by Northumbria Police for flouting lockdown - and the rules they broke

The lockdown restrictions were first put in place on the evening of Monday, March 23, with police legislation being introduced three days later on March 26.

In the seven weeks between then and May 14 260 people have been fined by Northumbria Police for flouting the rules.

How many fines were handed out by area?

Figures show the highest number of fines in Northumbria Police’s force area were handed out in Newcastle – with 114 fines dished out in the first seven weeks of lockdown.

A further 70 fines were handed out in Northumberland, 35 in Sunderland and 17 in South Tyneside.

The lowest number of fines were given to people in North Shields (16) and Gateshead (eight).

What were the fines given to people for?

Police forces throughout the country were given extra powers to give out penalties to people who fail to stick to the guidelines issued by the Government in an effort to prevent the speed of Covid-19.

Northumbria Police issued 173 penalty notices to people who had left their home without a ‘reasonable excuse’.

Fifty fines were given to people who were participating in a gathering of more than two people.

Three fines were also handed out to parents due to a child repeatedly failing to comply with the restrictions.

The final 34 were given to people who failed to follow direction or comply with reasonable instruction.

On Saturday, May 2, the most fines were handed out – 22 in one day.

How much do the penalty notices cost?

Officers have been able to issue fines of £60, reduced to £30 if paid within 14 days. Anyone who is found in breach of the rules a second time is given a £120 penalty, with the amount doubling on each further repeat offence.

Why are the fines handed out?

Northumbria Police has said the force uses enforcement as a last resort with officers hoping people will comply with requests to help keep people safe.

Chief Superintendent Janice Hutton said: “When the lockdown was announced, we were very clear that we would look to engage with members of the public to explain the regulations and encourage people to follow them.“However, we have always stated that where necessary we would make use of legislation available to enforce the restrictions in order to protect our communities, which includes the issuing of fines.”

She added: “We would continue to ask everyone to follow the modified regulations which came into force on Monday.

“Personal responsibility is now key – and for those who are able to leave their homes as a result of the changes, please think carefully about where you are going and how you will be able to keep your distance from others.

“Please keep in mind the purpose of the regulations – to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus – and continue to support the national effort to protect the NHS and save lives.”

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