Police have issued a lockdown fine on the M5 after catching a group driving from Manchester to Bristol.
The two men and one woman said they were travelling in one vehicle on the motorway because they wanted to collect a car they were buying.
Gloucestershire Police said the three people committing the offence “didn’t understand at all” that what they were doing was wrong.
They subsequently did not listen to a police officer when he explained to them that this was non-essential travel, Gloucestershire Live reports.
As a result, the group was issued with £60 fines - the first which have been handed out by this particular police force.
Inspector Dan Wakeford said: “Our approach has been that officers will engage with motorists to establish why they are travelling, explain the risks to public health, encourage people to consider if they need to travel and then consider enforcement when people have refused to take the advice on board.
“Our teams have been polite but inquisitive, alert and sensitive to other potential reasons why people may be travelling. Where appropriate we have asked for letters explaining that the person is a key worker and people have been happy for us to do this.
“The one example of non-compliance shouldn’t overshadow the fact that this was one of the quietest days on the M5 in history and most people do get it.
“However it is our first enforcement action and should demonstrate that we will use our powers where needed.
“Please continue to act responsibly as my officers will be out on major routes again today and in the week ahead.
"And with next weekend being the Easter weekend please remember you should not be travelling anywhere to go on holiday."
