The assistant chief constable of Hampshire Constabulary says that the force wants to “reassure” the public that they will “continue to police the pandemic as we have done” as most of Hampshire is put into the top level of coronavirus restrictions.

In a statement released on December 26 to coincide with all areas of Hampshire, except the New Forest, being placed into Tier Four, Maggie Blyth said officers would continue to use “common sense and discretion” to enforce Covid regulations.

Police have previously undertaken border checks between Hampshire and neighbouring counties as part of their enforcement of these rules.

She said: “Following the Government’s announcement to changes in the tier system from today (December 26), we want to reassure residents of Hampshire and IOW that we will continue to police the pandemic as we have done.

“All of Hampshire is now in Tier Four, apart from the New Forest which is in Tier Three. The Isle of Wight is also now in Tier Three.

“We have seen this year that the pandemic is an ever-changing picture but our policing response is able to adapt to this each time.

“Our approach throughout the pandemic has been to engage, explain and encourage people to comply with the regulations, and this will continue. We will use common sense and discretion to determine what is reasonable and we will enforce when blatant breaches are committed.

“We will continue to work with our partner agencies to keep you and your communities safe, and we will continue with Covid-19 related patrols and be visible as we can be in your neighbourhoods.

“We are still all in this together and if we continue to work together we can limit the spread of infection and ultimately, save lives.

“Be sure to check the restrictions that apply to the area where you live. The Government’s website covers the details of all the tiers and also explains exemptions.”

Under Tier Four restrictions, members of the public must stay at home except for specific exceptions outlined in law, such as work and education.

A summary of the restrictions can be found by clicking here.