Police will be increasing their patrols across East Lancashire this weekend as warm weather with temperatures reaching as high as 17 degrees has been predicted for the region.

Officers will be particularly keen to crack down on large gatherings in parks and open spaces, as the temptation to get outside to the countryside will be difficult for most to resist.

But police are advising people to use common sense when reporting - spotting two kids at the end of the street should not be an excuse to dial 101.

A spokesperson for the police said: "We are conscious of the warm weather expected this weekend.

"You may see increased patrols in some areas to help us stop the spread of coronavirus and save lives.

"Please consider whether your journey is essential.

"If you are outdoors we may ask you why.

"This is to stop the spread of the coronavirus and protect our NHS.

"You may be subject to fines if there is not a valid reason for being outdoors."

The UK entered into lockdown just over a week ago, with strict new measures introduced designed to delay the virus’ spread.

They included a ban on public gatherings of more than two people; only leaving the home to exercise once a day; travelling to and from work “where this is absolutely necessary”; shopping for essential items; and fulfilling any medical or care needs.

Police were given new powers to help prevent the spread of coronavirus too, being able to fine people up to £120 if they are caught breaking the rules.

Last weekend alone, police in Lancashire handed out 123 fines to people seen flouting the lockdown measures, with around 25 of those being issued in East Lancashire.

The police are now asking the public to help them by only contacting them only if a police response is needed.

The spokesperson added: "We need your continuing help in relation to the powers.

"If you see two or three children at the end of the street, or your neighbour has gone out twice not once, please don’t call us.

"We have to make sure our contact centre can continue to respond to people who need a police response, including the most vulnerable.

"However, if you see mass public gatherings, large house parties or pubs who aren’t complying with the rules then please tell us, by either calling 101 or using our form in the online services section of our website.

"We all have a shared responsibility to protect the NHS, please use your common sense and help us together to save lives.

"Our approach is to engage, explain and encourage people to help us in saving lives and protecting the NHS.

"Enforcement is a last resort, please apply common sense during this period.

"We will be working to ensure social distancing measures are adhered to reduce the spread of coronavirus and save lives.

"Unless necessary, stay home, protect the NHS and save lives."

Guidance on using green spaces at this current time is available at: gov.uk/government/news/coronavirus-guidance-on-access-to-green-spaces.

More information on what you can do to help the police can be found on their website lancashire.police.uk/information/covid-19/.

For the latest updates, follow the police social media channels or head to the Lancashire Telegraph's website where more comprehensive details can be found.