People in Dorset are being reminded to continue to play their part and prevent the spread of coronavirus.

As of last Thursday, all hospitality, leisure, entertainment, pubs and tourism businesses have to close by 10pm.

Other measures include an increased fine of £200 for not wearing a face mask, changes to numbers permitted to attend weddings and civil ceremonies, and staff in hospitality and retail will have to wear face coverings. And under the rule of six anyone gathering in a group of more than six people in any inside or outside place will continue to be dispersed and could now be subject to an increased fine of £200 if they refuse to comply.

The tighter restrictions have been put in place by the Government to address the rise in the number of cases of COVID-19 and prevent further spread of the virus.

The south west has one of the lowest infection rates in the country, but Dorset Police have warned people not to be complacent.

Assistant Chief Constable Sam de Reya said: “We fully understand how difficult the last six months have been for people. The majority of people have followed the guidance and played their part in helping to stop the spread of COVID-19.

“The south west has one of the lowest infection rates in the country, but we cannot afford to be complacent now. Nationally the infection rate is rising rapidly and we must continue to work together to keep everyone safe. It is critical that the public fully understand the regulations and take personal responsibility for their actions."

She added: “Dorset Police will maintain the approach to the new legislation of using engagement, education and encouragement to ask members of the public to comply with the regulations. I hope the public will continue to act responsibly and comply.

“Under the rule of six anyone gathering in a group of more than six people in any inside or outside place will continue to be dispersed and could now be subject to an increased fine of £200 if they refuse to comply.

“We will be visibly supporting these measures and in circumstances where individuals are clearly and blatantly breaching the legislation, particularly at large parties or where anti-social behaviour or disorder is present, enforcement can be expected. The rule of six law is not new and is perfectly clear. We all have a personal responsibility to follow it to help stop the spread of a deadly virus."

Regarding fines for people not wearing masks, Ms de Reya said the local police approach was to engage with people first, educating them on the law and encouraging them to comply.

"Where we are left with no choice we will enforce, but this is a last resort," she added.

“We remain in difficult and testing times and the overall test of success is not in the volume of enforcement, but in compliance as this is critical for us to reduce the transmission of infection. It is of vital importance that people respect the change in the law. I hope that we do not need to enforce the legislation and people understand the importance of the measures put in place to keep us all safe. The pandemic has not gone away and everyone must play their part to protect themselves, their families and our communities.”