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Police in Lancashire are urging the public to report any breaches of the new Tier 2 lockdown restrictions which come into force today (Wednesday, October 14).

Lancashire officially enters into Tier 2 (High Risk) local lockdown from today, with restrictions similar to those previously implemented across the county, but now enforceable by law.

The move comes amid concerns that the virus is spreading out of control across the North West, forcing restrictions to be tightened in an effort to prevent further spread and relieve pressure on hospitals.

Areas on high alert must not meet with anybody outside their household or support bubble in any indoor setting, whether at home or in a public place, such as pubs, bars and restaurants. There are some exceptions for workplaces, schools and special occasions such as weddings and funerals.

It also means any social gathering of more than six people outside the home or workplace, including in gardens and parks, is now against the law.

Those found flouting the rules face fines of up to £200 for the first offence. The fines will then double for further offences up to a maximum of £6,400.

And if you hold, or are involved in holding, an illegal gathering of more than 30 people, the police can issue fines of £10,000.

What you should do if you think someone is breaking the rules

Lancashire Police has made an online tool available where people can quickly report suspected breaches of lockdown restrictions in their community.

A person will be asked for their contact details and asked to provide a description of the incident before submitting it for investigation.

The Lancashire Police website says: “Please continue to use this form to report large gatherings of people who are not from the same household, house parties or other significant incidents which you are concerned breach the current legislation.

“This form should only be used to report significant breaches of the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) legislation which are continuously being revised and updated in response to levels of Coronavirus.”

You can report a suspected breach of COVID-19 restrictions on the Lancashire Police website here.