Fines have been issued to people who travelled from outside the region to visit Formby beach at the weekend.
Merseyside Police turned away more than 100 cars from the beauty hotspot after nice weather enticed people to break lockdown rules, with some travelling from as far afield as Leeds.
Thousands of pounds worth of fines were issued after visitors were caught at Formby beach with a total of 20 people each handed £200 penalty notices.
Although restrictions remain in place, it is thought some people have started to relax since Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced the government’s roadmap out of lockdown last week.
They were dishing out fines at Formby Beach at weekend.
Huge open windswept sand dunes.
Seems much less risky than Tesco or house parties.— Christof (@christof_ff) March 3, 2021
Community Policing Superintendent Graeme Robson said in a statement: “Individuals from as far as Leeds, Manchester and Stockport were found to have made the trip to Formby today, which is quite frankly astounding.”
Other Merseyside residents reported that other areas like New Brighton on the Wirral also saw a surge in visitors over the weekend.
Police have urged people to wait until they are given the go ahead to travel outisde of their locality to visit beaches and beauty spots.
CPS Robson added: He added: “Now more than ever people should be taking heed of the advice, so that infection rates can continue to drop, and we can meet the criteria necessary for easing lockdown in the upcoming weeks and months.”
Good morning Jan – it would be nice if everyone did as they were told ? Sadly a bit of sun and idiots think it’s ok to drive miles to a beach ?♀️ They got turned away by police at Formby this weekend and big fines – stupid ?Some from Manchester ?
— Katie Booth (@KatieBoo0903) March 1, 2021
For further information on lockdown rules, please see the latest government guidance.