Stephen Watson, chief constable of South Yorkshire Police, said he was aware the last few months had been a struggle for members of the public, and urged people to abide by social distancing rules to ensure the 'privilege' of pubs and bars being open can continue.

In a message shared on the forces Facebook page, he said police officers are there for the public, and will be out in greater numbers ahead of the reopening of pubs.

It said: “I am acutely aware that so much has been asked of the public of late. Many of us have made sacrifices, felt loss and loneliness and experienced anxiety and frustration but we have adhered to social distancing to help reduce the outbreak.

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“Now, we reach a new milestone where families and friends begin to come back together again in social settings. This is a time many of us have longed for as we have renewed appreciation for time with those we care about and we are keen to hold on to this privilege.

“With every easing of restrictions we see a short uptick in cases. It takes two weeks to truly understand the impact of any easing so whilst I am all for people having fun this weekend and enjoying some down time, I am also mindful of those who may prefer to keep a watchful eye on the easing before they choose to participate.

“We know that the current restrictions require pubs and restaurants to operate very differently and perhaps not quite provide the social setting we are all so accustomed to. Pubs will be operating a table only service and those attending will be asked to provide their personal information so they can be contacted should an outbreak be identified. Public transport is running with a reduced service and people will be required to socially distance whilst out and about.

“Then we add alcohol into that picture and suddenly the lines of socially distancing become blurred. We anticipate an increase on demand on 101 and 999 this weekend, the hospitals are expecting demand similar to that of New Year’s Eve and all the while the virus continues in the background.

“I have said throughout this outbreak that your officers remain here for you and this remains true. This weekend they will be out in greater number to provide reassurance and to keep you safe from harm. However, the greatest safety measure in tackling a virus remains to stay at home.

“We know the last few months have been a struggle but let it not be in vain. There is a way out of this but a little more patience may be required.

“It is our shared hope that you have a wonderful weekend and, importantly, we hope it is one of many more to come.”

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South Yorkshire Police chief constable shares message ahead of pubs and bars opening this weekend