West Yorkshire Police have a strong message for people tempted to breach Covid-19 rules as the force prepares to patrol the first weekend in lockdown.
The message comes as videos of wild student parties in Leeds in defiance of Boris Johnson's orders to 'stay home and protect the NHS' surfaced online this week.
West Yorkshire Police assistant chief constable Tim Kingsman has urged people to stay at home and comply with the rules this weekend and says officers will use their powers to crack down on people blatantly ignoring the restrictions.
He said: “As you know, the country has now entered a further period of lockdown, to control the further spread of Coronavirus, save lives and help protect our National Health Service from becoming overwhelmed.
“While this is not where we wanted to be, entering 2021, it is essential and I urge everyone to do their bit by complying with the lockdown rules and staying at home as directed by the Government.
“We all miss our friends and family, but the more we follow the rules now, the better the chances of restrictions being eased sooner rather than later.
“I am pleased to say that the vast majority of people in West Yorkshire have been incredibly compliant and supportive since the start of this pandemic, sticking to the rules and guidance in place at the time.
“While I am sure this will continue, the police do have additional powers of enforcement, which are there to keep the wider public safe.”
He added: “We will continue our approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging compliance, but where there are blatant breaches, which clearly show a disregard for the health and safety of the wider public, we must take action and we will use our powers.
“I am confident that we have the support of the wider public in doing so, but of course it is your hands. For your own wellbeing, you must stick rigidly to the rules. If you must go out, in line with the rules, remember - hands, face, space.
“I am extremely proud of the tireless work by my officers and staff and the wider key worker community at this really difficult time, as well as the real community spirit that neighbourhood officers witness on a daily basis.
“None of us underestimate the scale of the challenge at this crucial time. Please continue to support the effort to keep your community safe, protect the NHS and save lives.
“With a sustained effort now and the ongoing rollout of the vaccine, we should be able to look forward to better days and being reunited with our loved ones.”
