‘Many people’ stayed at home in Sussex over the weekend but police condemn those ‘continuing to flout life-saving advice’

That was the message from Sussex Police superintendent Graham Barnett as the UK-wide coronavirus lockdown continues this week. 

According to the county police force, despite the high temperatures this weekend, ‘many people in Sussex’ followed government advice to ‘stay home, help protect the NHS and save lives’.

Superintendent Barnett said: “We are pleased to see that most of the public have listened to our appeals to stay home and avoid travelling to places where other people are gathering.

“We have been disappointed to get reports of people who are still continuing to flout the life-saving advice being given out from the government and our partners during this devastating pandemic.

“These reports have largely been around people holding house and street parties, meeting up to exercise in groups and congregating at beauty hotspots and some beaches.”

On Saturday (April 4), Brighton beach was packed with visitors, despite several warnings from authorities to stay at home.

Brighton and Hove City Council condemned those who went against government guidance by flocking to the beach. Read more here

Police officers were out all weekend, continuing its day-to-day policing, including patrolling public areas. 

“We engaged, explained and encouraged people to do the right thing in following the government’s guidance and where necessary we have taken enforcement action against those who have not complied,” Superintendent Barnett continued. 

“Our priority remains staying at home, avoiding contact with others and stopping the spread of Covid-19.

“We thank everyone for their continued patience at this challenging time.”