POLICE have been called out to deal with groups of youths congregating, playing football and being abusive in areas of Chester and Neston.

Officers are now urging parents to make sure their children follow the Government's rules on staying indoors during the coronavirus crisis.

Groups of youths gathered in the Queensway, Newton Lane and Dicksons Drive areas of Chester yesterday (March 25), as well as in Christleton and Neston.

Cheshire Police have been publicising the call outs on their local policing social media accounts.

Newton Police posted: "PARENTS!! Please take note we had several reports of youths playing football and hanging about in Queensway, Newton Lane and Dicksons Drive areas, this is unacceptable and puts other people at risk.

"Please follow the Government’s guidelines. #staysafe #stayindoors"

Chester Villages Police said: "Christleton please note the pond area, park, cricket pitch are NOT places to be. There is a notice on the park to say it is closed.

"ABSOLUTELY NO ONE should be gathering, I have had reports of youths getting together on the bike track. Whose children are these? Please let me know."

Neston and Parkgate Police posted: "Officers out on patrol this evening. Called out to deal with group of youths being abusive in the area of Church Lane/Flint Meadow.

"We will continue to give attention in this area. Kids – the rules apply to you also set by the Government."

It's not been all bad though.

Tarporley Police has praised two youths for playing their part in helping the community, posting: "I have just said a big thank you to two teenage lads.

"They have given up their time to distribute Parish Council leaflets, on how to get assistance, to all households. They're not all bad."

Meanwhile, Upton Police has urged members of the public to be careful when carrying out social distancing – after reports of people walking onto busy roads to avoid others.

They posted: "I am pleased to see everyone keeping a safe distance. However I saw people keeping a safe distance by walking onto busy roads to try and keep away from each other.

"Can I please remind you all to please not walk on the road! It is unsafe for yourselves and other road users #wecare"