AHEAD of the Easter bank holiday weekend we issued a plea to our communities, urging people to stay at home to help support the NHS and save lives.

We knew the weather forecast was good and we were concerned that people may be starting to feel fatigued with the lockdown restrictions.

However, we were incredibly grateful to see that the vast majority of people adhered to the government guidelines and enjoyed the Easter break in their homes and gardens, rather than venturing outdoors.

I joined our officers and staff by going out on patrol across Wiltshire and Swindon over the long weekend and I was impressed by the empty streets and, when we did come across people, that they were still following social distancing.

I want to reassure people that, when we do see isolated incidents of people putting either themselves or others at risk, that we are taking action.

Although our focus has been on engagement and communication – encouraging people to do the right thing – we have issued a small amount of fixed penalty notices to those who have breached the restrictions.

I know the past few weeks have been difficult. All of us here at Wiltshire Police are experiencing the same worries and concerns that you have.

But, as we enter the fourth week of lockdown, it is more important than ever that we continue to stay strong and do everything we can to help the NHS.

On a final note I would like to reiterate something I said last week, when we announced that our frontline officers and staff are being issued with personal protective equipment.

This means that you may now see police officers, or local crime investigators or PCSOs out in our communities wearing equipment such as face masks.

I know this may look alarming, especially at a time when everyone is feeling worried about their health and the potential risk of infection, but please be reassured that this is a precautionary measure to help keep our officers and staff safe.

The very nature of policing means that our workforce is routinely in close contact with the public, so I’m sure you appreciate and understand our desire to keep them safe.

Once again, thank you to everyone for playing your part in this fight against coronavirus.

By staying at home, you are helping to protect the NHS and save lives.