Police risk triggering a flurry of civil cases because of the draconian enforcement of the coronavirus lockdown, lawyers have warned as it emerged more than 1,000 fines have been issued to those ignoring pleas to stay at home.

Legal experts say police methods to ensure the public do not needlessly go out could backfire after some officers have appeared “authoritarian” in enforcing new regulations.

A total of 1,084 fines have been issued in England and Wales for those flouting lockdown regulations since it was introduced last month. That is equivalent to around 80 fines, which start at £60, being handed out every day.

There were mounting concerns some people had tried to have an Easter holiday after Government statistics showed an increase in journeys made by motor vehicle in the run up to the Bank Holiday weekend.

Steve Powis, medical director of NHS England, said at Saturday's Downing Street briefing there was “a lot of anger at the foolish few” who were blatantly ignoring the call to stay at home.

Chairman of the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) Martin Hewitt told the press conference that forces had seen a 21 per cent fall in overall crime in the last four weeks compared to the same period last year.

He added that officers were still working to tackle crime such as drug smuggling and fraud.

Priti Patel, the Home Secretary, said police powers would be kept under review in light of the number of fines issued.

She said police would be "unafraid" to police social distancing rules and pledged her “clear and unequivocal support for the police”.