Sussex Police have warned the public they will be on patrol this weekend to ensure people are still abiding by lockdown restrictions.

Sussex is set to enjoy wall-to-wall sunshine tomorrow and Sunday.

The force tonight said: "Don’t stop now! There are concerns that after a long year of restrictions, falling infection rates, the vaccine rollout, better weather & the roadmap out of lockdown earlier this week, that people may get complacent.

"But the rule of 6 or 2 families doesn't begin until 29 March."

The Argus: Sussex Police will patrol the seafront this weekendSussex Police will patrol the seafront this weekend

What are England's lockdown rules?

People must stay at home and only go out if you have "a reasonable excuse".

You are not to meet people socially unless you live together or form a support bubble.

People breaking these rules can face fines, including an £800 penalty for those attending house parties of more than 15 people - and a £10,000 fine for the organisers.

What's a 'reasonable excuse' for leaving home?

  • Shopping for essentials such as food and medicine
  • Meeting your support or childcare bubble
  • Children moving between separated parents
  • Working where it is "unreasonable" to work from home, for example nannies, cleaners and tradespeople
  • Education, training, childcare, medical appointments and emergencies
  • Religious worship
  • Moving house
  • Exercise once a day

You can exercise with one person from another household in an open public space.

You should stay local. Travel - internationally or around the UK - is only allowed if it is essential.

If you are clinically extremely vulnerable you should only go out for medical appointments, exercise or essential reasons. You should not attend work.

When will the rules change?

The first stage of the PM’s “roadmap” out of lockdown will lift some restrictions from March 8.

All pupils in England’s schools are expected to return to class from this date.

This includes colleges and practical higher education courses.

Socialising in parks and public spaces with one other person will also be permitted.

Two people from different households will be able to meet outside in public to socialise. This could include having a picnic, but they will have to socially distance.

Thirty people will be able to attend a funeral and six people will be able to attend wakes and weddings.

Further restrictions under “Step 1” will be lifted on March 29.

From March 29, people from two households, or groups of up to six, can meet outdoors.

Outdoor spot and leisure facilities will reopened. Organised outdoor sport will also be allowed.

There will also be the introduction of outdoor parent and child groups of up to 15 parents.