POLICE have vowed to keep up their high-visibility patrols of Teignbridge following the Government’s announcement to extend the coronavirus lock-down for three more weeks.

Assistant Chief Constable Glen Mayhew said: ‘This announcement means that the legislation and government advice on social distancing and restricted movement remains the same, and it is expressly to prevent the spread of coronavirus, to protect the NHS and to save lives.

‘It includes the following: Only go outside for essential food, for exercise, for health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home).

‘If you go out, stay two metres (6ft) away from other people at all times. Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms. 

‘We will be continuing our high-visibility patrols with our approach remaining the same; we continue to engage, explain and encourage people to adhere to the guidelines.

‘As previously stated, enforcement will be our last resort but we will not hesitate to use this where appropriate. Devon and Cornwall Police alongside other emergency will respond to incidents and calls for service as necessary.

‘We are confident that we have the resource and resilience to continue to deliver core services to those that need us.

‘We understand the hardships that our communities are going through at this time but this is a collaborative effort and I want to take this opportunity to thank the vast majority of you who are adhering to the government guidelines and avoiding unnecessary travel. 

‘Unfortunately, a small minority of people continue to ignore the restrictions and we are appealing to them to do the right thing.

‘We know how difficult these measures are for everyone – but this is about protecting our families, friends and communities.

‘I continue to be very proud of my officers, staff, volunteers, local partners and all the key workers who have all shown incredible resilience throughout these unprecedented times and continue to do so.

‘We are all in this together, each and every one of us has a vital role to play in reducing the rate of the spread of the virus.’