POLICE say they will take action against people who break coronavirus lockdown laws and put others at risk.

West Mercia Police said its officers will respond "firmly" to those who flout the new laws in England, which Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced in a televised address on Monday.

The lockdown is being enshrined in law and police can take action if people leave home without a reasonable excuse.

The police can issue a Fixed Penalty Notice of £200 for the first offence, doubling for further offences up to a maximum of £6,400.

Chief Constable of West Mercia Police Anthony Bangham said: “Over the last year the vast majority of people in our communities have kept to the rules and I am confident that they will continue to do so through this new phase of the pandemic.

“West Mercia Police will continue to be visible across our villages, towns and cities working with our partners to do all we can to prevent the spread of the virus.

"As the public would expect, we will respond firmly, but fairly, using all the powers available to us to take action against those people that flout the laws and knowingly put others at risk.

“Policing across West Mercia will continue unabated throughout the lockdown and as the Prime Minster outlined yesterday help is available to anyone whose home is not a safe place to be. We would like to emphasise that we are still here for you 24/7.”

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As part of the third lockdown in England, all non-essential shops, hairdressers and personal care salons must close.

Supermarkets, pharmacies, off-licences, builders’ merchants and garden centres can stay open, as can launderettes, car repair shops, car washes, banks, market stalls selling essentials and bike shops.

Restaurants and other hospitality venues can continue with delivery or takeaway only, but people will not be able to add alcohol to any orders they collect.

Entertainment venues such as cinemas, skating rinks and bowling alleys must remain closed.

Holidays in the UK and abroad are not allowed, including staying in a second home or caravan.

People must also not stay overnight with anyone they do not live with unless they are in a support bubble.

Some exceptions do apply such as if people are unable to return to their main residence, need accommodation while moving house or for work, or need accommodation to attend a funeral.

Guest accommodation providers such as hotels, B&Bs and caravan parks may remain open for the specific reasons set out in law, including where guests need accommodation while moving house.