POLICE have been out in force today checking up on vehicles as the coronavirus lockdown ordered by Prime Minister Boris Johnson enters day three.

A spokesperson said: ‘Today in Devon a number of neighbourhood patrols have carried out stop checks on vehicles travelling within the county.

‘The purpose of these checks is to engage with the public and to explain and reiterate the request from government, ensuring people have considered if their journey is essential.

‘The purpose, at this time, is not to enforce the direction set out by the government, but to prepare communities for the new police powers which will be put in place in the coming days.

‘This measure is one of many that the force have actioned today, including high visibility foot patrols, pro-active discussions around PHE advice and deploying units as broadly as possible.

‘This is an ever changing situation and we will maintain an agile approach.’