INCIDENTS in Thurrock have been highlighted as Essex Police have warned they will not tolerate breaches of Covid-19 restrictions.

Though Covid-19 infection rates have been falling across the county police say the virus is still prevalent in communities so it's essential residents continue to stick to the rules.

A statement from the force says: "We'd like to thank people across Essex for following the government guidelines.

"The best way to control the spread of the virus, protect your loved ones and ease pressure on the NHS is to stay at home and avoid any unnecessary journeys.

"The vast majority of you are doing the right thing but, where clear and blatant breaches have taken place, our officers have responded to them."

Among a number of coronavirus-related incidents they have highlighted a Grays householder being issued an FPN for hosting a party on the evening of Friday 5 February that contravened rules preventing gathering in an indoor space with two or more people from different households.

On Sunday, 7 February fines were issued by Grays community policing team officers to two men riding off-road bikes in Purfleet for making an unnecessary journey and being from different households.

Police say: "If you are thinking about organising a social gathering or making a non-essential journey, please reconsider, stay safe and stop the unnecessary spread of Covid-19.

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"Our officers will continue to take a common sense approach to the government's regulations. They will continue to engage with people, explain the regulations and encourage them to do the right thing.

"But, where reasoned conversation is not successful, we will consider enforcement action. We will continue to respond to clear and blatant breaches and, where they occur, work with our partners to resolve them.

"We want people to continue to report Covid-19 breaches. You can report them via our website by using our digital 101 service, where you can speak to one of our operators via Live Chat, any day between 7am and 11pm."