Scores of people across the North East turned out to enjoy the sunny weather this weekend - but there was anger after some appeared to be flouting social distancing rules.
The region's beaches and parks were packed on Saturday and Sunday, and hundreds also headed towards Newcastle's Quayside for a stroll.
However, ChronicleLive has received reports of some apparently breaking social distancing rules and gathering in large groups in parts of the region.
These pictures show people gathered in and around Brinkburn Street and Riverside walk, in the Ouseburn area, drinking alcohol on Friday evening. There were also reports of some urinating in public.
The behaviour was branded "shocking", "ridiculous" and "an absolute disgrace" on social media.
One wrote on Facebook: "Disgusting. This is what will spoil it for everyone who are sensible and want to finally start coming back to their fave pubs and restaurants."
Another said: "Selfish and disgusting behaviour that has prolonged this pandemic."
Northumbria Police says their officers were out and about across the whole force area engaging with the public and carrying out patrols over the weekend. They did not confirm whether any fines were issued in relation to specific incidents.
However a spokesperson said: “As we have done throughout the pandemic, our officers will continue to carry out patrols and work closely with our communities.
“As we have made clear, where individuals are choosing to ignore the measures in place, we are committed to taking enforcement action to protect our communities.
“We would ask everyone to continue to play their part to help prevent the spread of Covid-19.”
A Newcastle City Council spokesman said that this weekend's sunny weather had drawn residents outdoors but warned that restrictions could only be lifted if people follow the rules.
He added: “With the warmer weather this weekend, large numbers of people were seen at popular beauty spots including the Quayside and the city’s parks.
“Many were enjoying the improved weather to take exercise, but there were also groups gathering with large queues forming at businesses selling takeaway food and drink.
“In partnership with the police we are ensuring that these areas are suitably patrolled to engage members of the public and encourage compliance with the restrictions that are in place to protect us all from Covid-19. Additional signage is also due to be installed.
“We would remind all residents that England remains in a period of national lockdown and while the Government’s roadmap for easing restrictions has generated widespread optimism of more normal times ahead, restrictions can only be lifted if we follow the rules.
“The timescales set out by the Prime Minister will only be followed if it is safe for measures to be eased, and any change will be determined by data, and specifically the threat posed by the virus to the wider community.
“Until such time as restrictions are formally altered, we must all stay at home except for the permitted reasons, stay local when exercising and shopping, and maintain the Hands, Face, Space guidance at all times.
“If you do visit parks or the Quayside for exercise, be reminded that a Public Spaces Protection Order prohibits alcohol consumption in these locations and the police can take action if appropriate, and wherever you are, please dispose of all litter responsibly.
“We are also aware of concerns raised about alleged anti-social behaviour in the Ouseburn area this weekend and continue to investigate the matter.”
