FIVE people who attended a car meet were fined for breaching coronavirus restrictions.

The youngsters, all aged 18 to 20 and from different households, were issued with £200 fines after they were found inside a vehicle together.

Officers stopped the car in Somerset Road in the early hours of Saturday morning.

A Wiltshire Police spokesperson said: “They [officers] found a group of young people who admitted they were in the car together as they were socialising but were informed, they were only allowed to socialise in groups of up to six outdoors, not in vehicles.”

The “stay at home” rule has now ended, but the guidance states that people should continue to work from home where they can and minimise the number of journeys they make where possible, avoiding travel at the busiest times and routes.

In the week up to April 5, Wiltshire Police said they had recorded 277 Covid-related reports, two Covid-related crimes, six Covid-related incidents, issued two formal warnings and given eight fixed penalty notices.

Deputy Chief Constable Paul Mills said: “The first week of the gradual easing of the Government’s restrictions has passed without significant issues of concern and I want to thank everyone for their ongoing support.

“I know many of you will have used the relatively good weather over the bank holiday weekend to have long-awaited reunions with families and friends, meeting outdoors in groups of up to six people or two households.

“We also had a protest in Swindon on Saturday, where a group of people gathered peacefully and respectfully, ensuring the event was in line with the Covid-19 regulations.

“I know that a further relaxation of the rules will come into place next Monday, including the reopening of many businesses, such as non-essential shops and hairdressers, and outdoor hospitality venues.

“This is all very positive, but I would continue to urge everyone to remain sensible and ensure you are continuing to do everything you can to limit the spread of the virus.”

Police and Crime Commissioner Angus Macpherson added: “The ongoing relaxation of lockdown is very positive, and I know it will mean so much to so many people to be able to start returning to a more normal way of living.

“But we must continue to remember that we are living with Covid-19, so we must remain cautious.

“Please make sure you are keeping your distance from others, regularly washing your hands and wearing face coverings when needed.”