DOZENS of fines were issued to lockdown flouters in Cumbria last week - 75 per cent of which were issued to local people.

Over the past week, 49 fixed penalty notices were issued to those breaching lockdown rules in the county - the majority of which were by local people mixing in houses or cars.

The force was concerned they would see a rise in those flouting lockdown restrictions during the half-term break, however, officers have said this has proven not to be the case.

Cumbria Police has thanked the 'overwhelming majority' of people who have followed the lockdown rules and helped reduce the spread of Covid-19.

Assistant chief constable Andy Slattery has thanked everyone for making sacrifices to follow the rules.

He said: “It continues to be the case that the overwhelming majority of people have understood why the current Government restrictions are necessary and have respected the rules.

“This past week there was a concern that we may see an increase in people breaking the restrictions during half-term but that has not proven to be the case.

“As the Government prepares to announce the next steps, we would like to thank everyone who has made - and is continuing to make - sacrifices to follow the rules.

"In doing so, you have helped stop the spread of the virus, protected the NHS and saved lives.”

Currently, people must not enter or leave the areas without a reasonable excuse and are only able to meet with other households outdoors, including members of their extended household.

The public has also been told to 'stay local' when exercising - which means staying within the village, town, or part of the city in which they live.

A spokesman for Cumbria Constabulary said there is no law defining the distance you can travel but guidance says that you should stay local when you exercise.

Cumbria Police have warned those who do not follow the regulations in place should expect to receive a fixed penalty notice.