NORTH Wales Police has issued a statement as lockdown restrictions come into effect across most of North Wales.

From 6pm this evening (Thursday, October 1) extra restrictions will be introduced in the counties of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham in a bid to slow the spread of coronavirus.

The restrictions mean that residents will not be able to travel in our out of the county in which they live without a valid reason.

And North Wales Police says it will continue to support the Welsh Government and local partners to implement the restrictions, adopting the same 4Es approach used since the beginning of the pandemic.

Officers will be visible in our communities, working with the public to engage, explain and encourage compliance. Enforcement action will be taken where necessary and will be proportionate.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Nigel Harrison said: “We completely understand that the news of these latest restrictions is hugely disheartening for many of us; but it’s really important that we all play our part by adhering to the new measures to help control and prevent further spread of the virus and keep all of our loved ones safe.

“Coronavirus doesn’t discriminate. Anyone – young or old – can get ill and spread the disease as such it’s incredibly important that we continue to take this seriously.

“The message from North Wales Police today is clear. People need to take these new restrictions seriously; because if they don’t there is every possibility that we will see further restrictions. We want everyone to work together so that we can get through this, follow the guidance and protect the public – this will prevent us from having to take action."

Assistant Chief Constable Harrison continued: “We are working hard to keep you safe from coronavirus and from crime. We’ve also seen a return to normal in crime levels since the easing of lockdown measures were announced, and now the demand has reached even greater levels due to blatant breaches of COVID legislation.

"We need people to recognise that wilfully flouting the guidance places unnecessary strain on already stretched resources, and ultimately endangers those people who may need the Emergency Services in their hour of need.

“However, we will not stand-by and allow blatant breaches of the legislation to happen across our communities. We will of course engage with the public and explain the new legislation, and encourage people to take personal responsibility for their own safety and that of others.

"If, however, people continue to flout the regulations, demonstrate a blatant disregard for the health warnings and put significant strain on already stretched resources, we will take action.

“Lastly, we want to say a huge thank those who are doing their bit and continuing to take this virus seriously as we all navigate our way through this pandemic. You really are playing your part in helping to save lives.”