Police astonished to see Ilkley Moor still full of visitors and people picnicking

West Yorkshire Police's Ilkley beat team were amazed to see 'car parks still full' on Thursday despite a lockdown being in force to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

Ilkley residents also reported groups of day-trippers having picnics on the banks of the River Wharfe.

Many of those breaking the rules on isolation and social distancing are thought to have travelled to Ilkley from elsewhere for a day out.

"Please listen to the advice and pease do not drive to Ilkley Moor. This is not essential travel.

"Even the town centre was quieter than the moor - there is less chance of bumping into people if you stay close to home. The car park by the Cow and Calf was full today."

In North Yorkshire, police are now manning rolling checkpoints and stopping cars to ask drivers whether their journey is essential.

Government guidelines permit people to leave the house once a day for exercise either alone or with members of their own household. Socialising in groups is not permitted and exercise should be taken in the vicinity of your home.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority has asked people not to travel to the countryside from outside of the area, and the National Trust has closed all of their sites and car parks after large crowds descended on them on Mother's Day.

Police now have powers to issue fines to people not complying with social distancing regulations and can disperse group gatherings.