Police have hit out at sightseers and walkers who travelled to North Yorkshire this weekend against the restrictions – with one couple causing particular problems.
Officers issued more than 70 fixed penalty notices to those who broke lockdown rules – including some who just wanted to ‘look at the snow’.
Meanwhile a man and woman from Lancashire had to be rescued from the summit of Ingleborough yesterday evening (Sunday).
They had travelled 60 miles from their home in Rochdale to climb the peak. But they were ill-equipped and lost their way in the fog and snow.
They called the police at 4.30pm, who contacted the Cave Rescue Organisation. Its volunteers were able to find the couple and bring them to safety.
“This couple were incredibly fortunate to have come through this experience without injury and be able to tell the tale,” said Supt Mike Walker of North Yorkshire Police.
“We very clearly advised members of the public this weekend to stay at home and when taking exercise, stay local to stop the spread of Covid.
“Quite simply driving miles and miles, out of your village, town or city to visit an open space is not a necessary journey and is not acceptable.”
The couple’s journey and lack of preparation put lives at risk, and could have added to the pressures on the NHS.
House parties
Supt Walker continued: “Officers policing the Craven district have told me they were run off their feet this weekend, speaking to out of area visitors who had decided to ‘come out for a drive’ or had ‘come to look at the snow’.”
And it wasn’t just in the Dales where there were problems.
“Across the county this weekend we have issued over 70 fixed penalty notices for breaches of the Covid regulations. On the coast in Scarborough we have again seen several house parties taking place, which have required our attendance.
“So again, I would ask people to really consider their actions and the decisions they are making.
“People should only be leaving home to make essential journeys and if taking exercise, staying local. In regard to socialising, people should not gather indoors with anyone who is not from their own household.”