High visibility police patrols across Pembrokeshire are taking place to ensure that people are complying with Covid-19 restrictions.

First Minister Mark Drakeford reaffirmed the message today (January 8) that everyone must stay at home to save lives as he confirmed the alert level four coronavirus restrictions in Wales will continue.

This week police officers and PCSOs have been out and about in coastal areas such as Tenby and Saundersfoot to check on compliance.

Superintendent Craig Templeton said: “Throughout lockdown officers will conduct high visibility patrols across the four counties of Dyfed-Powys.

“These will include road checks in key areas, which allow officers to engage with motorists and ensure that Welsh Government regulations regarding essential travel are understood and being followed.

“I appreciate this is an extremely difficult time for people but there is good reason for the restrictions.

“The virus is spreading extremely quickly. You only have to look at the messages coming from our health boards to understand how serious this is.”

He added: “In previous lockdowns we have been pleased that the majority of people were adhering to the rules and appreciate these checks are part of helping keep our communities safe.

“Where people have been found making unnecessary journeys, officers have explained the current limitations and encouraged people to return home.

“Enforcement – through the issue of fixed penalty notices or FPNs – remains only a method of last resort when drivers are determined to flout the rules.

“We would like to thank everyone who has worked with us to help keep Wales safe.”

Pembrokeshire County Council issued a statement after the lockdown in Wales was announced ahead of Christmas and New Year that travel to second or holiday homes is not permitted under Welsh Government Alert Level 4 restrictions, following reports of people journeying into Pembrokeshire to second or holiday homes since the restrictions came into force.

The restrictions state: ‘Travel in Wales without a reasonable excuse is an offence while alert level 4 restrictions are in place. Travelling into, out of or within Wales to visit, check, inspect, or stay in a second home or holiday home is not a reasonable excuse.

‘The same rules apply to caravans, boats and other temporary accommodation.’

Pembrokeshire County Council Leader, Clr. David Simpson said recently: “If we do not all work together these restrictions are going to be in place for a lot longer than would otherwise be necessary.

“Council Officers in partnership with Dyfed-Powys Police will take enforcement action where it is clear that the regulations have been broken. Please stay home, follow the rules and help bring this virus under control.”

The coronavirus regulations include provisions for a fixed penalty notice, carrying a fine of £60; this is increased to £120 for a second offence and continues to double for repeated offences, up to a maximum of £1,920. If prosecuted, however, a court can impose any fine.

A full explanation of alert level four and Welsh Government regulations is available at https://gov.wales/covid-19-alert-levels