EIGHT people were given warning or fines on the first day of new police powers according to South Wales Police.

On Tuesday, December 22, the force stopped 76 vehicles to check with compliance for the Alert Level 4 travel restrictions. The majority of these were able to prove compliance – meaning their journey was necessary. One person was issued with a fixed penalty notice while seven others were given warnings.

In the week running to December 20, 108 fixed penalty notices were handed out across the South Wales Police force area – with the majority in relation to illegal house parties and gatherings.

The force is urging their communities to comply with the Welsh Government rules to keep them and their families safe.

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Chief superintendent Andy Valentine said: “The prevalence of this virus in our communities has increased significantly in recent weeks and we all have a part to play to protect ourselves, our communities and the NHS, which is now under significant pressure in South Wales.

“This is a difficult time for us all; many of our officers and staff will be away from their families over the festive period, fighting crime and responding to the needs of some of the most vulnerable in our society.

“They know how difficult it is to be away from their own families at Christmas, and they do not want to ruin the occasion for anyone.

“Nor do they want to be placed at any greater risk by people flouting the rules, so I’d again appeal for the public’s support to do the right thing so we don’t have to enforce the legislation.”