CHESHIRE Constabulary have so far issued just under 200 fines to people flouting coronavirus lockdown rules, latest data shows.

Figures released by the National Police Chiefs’ Council also reveal that the force has not handed out any fixed penalty notices since June 8 as restrictions have eased.

The data shows that Cheshire Police have issued a total of 197 fines for breaches of Government public health regulations between March 27 and June 22.

In the same period, neighbouring forces Merseyside Police and North Wales Police have handed out 480 and 464 fines respectively.

In England, the total number of fixed penalty notices recorded by all forces was 15,856.

The majority of fines continue to be issued to males in the 18-34 age group, with fines more likely to be given at weekends.

A total of 700 people have been given more than one fine in England for further breaches of restrictions.

Reasons for fines being issued include driving with non-household members, house parties, large gatherings of people from different households, and camping.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, Martin Hewitt said: "Since lockdown restrictions began to ease the number of fines issued has seen a sustained fall across the country.

"Our approach of engaging with the public, explaining the regulations in place and encouraging them to do the right thing will continue.

"Officers have used their common sense and discretion to take in to account people's individual circumstances. We will only enforce as a last resort, against those who are in clear breach of the regulations.

"Behind each fine is a case where someone has failed to listen and do the right thing.

"As restrictions ease further from the 4 July in England, it is important for everyone to take more personal responsibility for their safety by continuing to follow official advice and government regulations. Limiting the spread of the virus should still be everyone's priority.

"I would like to again thank the vast majority of people for abiding by the lockdown measures and government advice."

Government public health regulations introduced on March 27 to prevent the spread of coronavirus enable police to issue individuals with fines if they fail to comply after officers have engaged with them, explained the risks to public health and encouraged voluntary compliance.