Cheshire police has warned that anyone caught flouting lockdown restrictions this evening will be given a fine.

The warning comes on the first day of Tier 4 restrictions in Cheshire East in which residents have been told they should stay at home and only to mix within your household or 'bubble' indoors.

Deputy Chief Constable Julie Cooke said: "I'm sure that we will all be wishing to say goodbye to this challenging and unprecedented year, but we must do so safely.

"Restrictions on social gatherings remain in place, and large gatherings and parties should not be happening. I urge anyone thinking of attending or organising one, not to do so.

"Our officers will be out in the community over the coming days and weeks and our preference remains to engage with individuals, explain the rules, and encourage compliance."

She added: "However, those who blatantly ignore the regulations should expect to receive a fixed penalty notice and we'll target our resources towards those who commit the most serious breaches and put others at risk through their behaviour."

DCC Cooke did remind those that may be suffering through domestic abuse that they are "not alone" and can reach out to the police and its partner organisations for help or contact the Domestic Abuse Helpline.