CARDIGAN police has again stressed the need for people to safety at home to save lives as members of the public continue to ignore the coronavirus lockdown.

Despite repeated warnings, police were again called to Mwnt yesterday (Friday, March 27) where non-residents had ignored the closure order and police tape and drove down to the beach.

The National Trust car park has now been sealed off and police patrols are being stepped up in a bid to ensure people only undertake travel that is absolutely essential.

The previous day, police had dispersed a group playing football at Newcastle Emlyn.

Sgt Delme Jones, from Cardigan’s Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We have high visibility patrols going up and down the coat checking on beaches, car parks and popular tourist attractions to ensure members of the community are listening to Government advice.

“We are stopping vehicles to check why people are out on the road and if their journey is necessary.

“It is not a necessary journey to drive 20 minutes to the beach or park to take the dog for a walk, for example.

“Unfortunately, accidents do happen or your car can break down and that puts extra strain on the emergency services and can spread the virus.

“Our message is to stay at home to save lives.”

Individuals are only be allowed to leave their home for the following very limited purposes:

  • Shopping for basic necessities and supplies, which should be as infrequently as possible
  • One form of exercise a day - for example, a run, walk or cycle - alone or with members of their household
  • Any medical need, to provide care or to help a vulnerable person
  • Travelling to and from work, but only where they cannot reasonably practicably work from home

People should stay at least 2m away from each other at all times.

Participating in gatherings of more than two people in public spaces is also not permitted except in very limited circumstances, for example, where it is for essential work purposes. The police will have powers to enforce this.

If people do not comply with these new laws:

  • They can be directed to return home or removed from where they are and returned home
  • They may have to pay a fixed penalty notice of £30, which if not paid within 14 days will double to £60, and if they are issued with a second or subsequent notice the charge will be £120

Individuals who do not pay a fixed penalty notice under the regulations could be taken to court, with magistrates able to impose unlimited fines.

If an individual continues to refuse to comply, they will be acting unlawfully, and the police may arrest them. However, in the first instance the police will always apply their common sense and discretion.

Dyfed Powys Police and Crime Commissioner Dafydd Llywelyn said: "Listen and adhere to the advice and fixed penalties won’t become an issue - ignoring the advice and all Welsh forces will use new powers. It’s not a national holiday it’s a national emergency”.