THURROCK Police officers are ready and able to take action against borough residents who flout Covid-19 restrictions.

That's the message in a social media post by local officers who say they want to concentrate on other policing issues but they are ready to act if necessary.

A statement says: "We know these are really challenging times, and we're all having to make sacrifices, but your efforts do make a difference and we want to thank you for continuing to take steps to help protect yourself and others.

"By following the regulations you help us to focus our main efforts on what we do best – catching criminals, helping people, and keeping people safe.

"We will continue to engage with people, explain the regulations, and encourage people to do the right thing.

"Where reasoned attempts to encourage someone to stick to the guidelines have been unsuccessful, and where necessary and proportionate, we will take enforcement action.

"For information about the latest regulations, guidance and advice relevant to our community, please click here.