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Nine people have been issued with fines by Kent Police under the Coronavirus Act, the force said.

The figure emerged as Chief Constable Alan Pughsley reiterated a request for people to stay at home over the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

Mr Pughsley said: “It comes as no surprise to me that the people of Kent would continue to do what is right for the good of the nation, and we must all continue to do as we have been instructed by the Government this Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

“It is also encouraging to note that my officers have only had to issue nine fines to date, as this shows that my officers are engaging, explaining and encouraging people in the correct way and are being listened to when they ask people to go home.

“Those who have received fines for refusing to comply need to take a look at themselves in the mirror and consider the potential health implications their actions could have on others. It is unacceptable at a time when thousands of people in the UK have already lost their lives.”

Last month Kent Police launched a scheme appealing for their former officers, staff and volunteers to consider coming back to help amid pressure caused by the pandemic. Mr Pughsley said there had been a “promising” response.