Cheshire Police have issued more than 1200 fines to people flouting rules in the current lockdown.

Officers have warned residents to comply with the rules as the gradual 'unlocking' started on Monday with the return of schools and a relaxing to outdoor recreation rules.

Following the changes, the force says officers will continue to engage and explain the rules with the public but will move to enforce when met with blatant and repeated breaches.

Assistant Chief Constable Jenny Sims said: "As we move into spring and summer, we know that more people will be visiting beauty spots across Cheshire.

"The rules in place remain clear and officers will be supporting the relaxation of the rules and will be enforcing when met with blatant and repeat breaches.

"If you are visiting beauty spots for recreation or exercise, only do so with members of your household/bubble or one person from outside your household.

She added: "It is really important that although you can now meet up recreationally you must still stay at home as much as possible to continue to keep the infection rate down."

1,273 fixed penalty notices have been issued for a range of blatant breaches such as birthday parties, businesses remaining open when they should be closed and multiple people travelling without reasonable excuse.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: "Cheshire residents have made great sacrifices over the last year but it is really important that we do not damage the hard work we have done in reducing coronavirus cases.

"There are still strict rules in place which we all need to follow in order to see further relaxation of the national lockdown restrictions."