South Wales Police have issued a statement to the public as Wales heads into a national firebreak lockdown.

The force says in large part they have seen people comply with rules in previous lockdowns, but they added a “small minority” have “either persistently or flagrantly broken the rules and our officers have been left with little option but to take enforcement action”.

Wales enters a two-week firebreak lockdown this evening from 6pm, until November 9.

Sharing a video to show how they are clamping down on lockdown flouters [watch below], Chief Superintendent Andy Valentine, Gold Commander for the force’s coronavirus response, said: “The examples shown in this footage are unacceptable.

"They are also disrespectful to the families of those who have died and NHS colleagues who have worked tirelessly to treat those affected by what remains a dangerous virus.”

The video demonstrates some of the excuses given by those breaching the rules, including a woman running a late night establishment based on what she'd heard on the telly, and a group of partying students.

“I know the prospect of further civil restrictions is frustrating and disheartening for people, but I would urge everyone in our communities to follow the regulations as they come into effect today," added chief superintendent Valentine.

“Like all police forces in the UK, our preference has always been encouraging voluntary compliance, but we will act against those who blatantly disregard legislation intended to keep them and the wider public safe.

“Responding to alleged COVID-19 breaches diverts police officers from areas where they are needed most – protecting vulnerable people and tackling serious and violent crimes. They are also placing my colleagues – men and women who are from our local communities – at increased risk of being exposed to coronavirus.

“As we enter the firebreak period, I am appealing for the continued support of the public across South Wales. Please take time to understand the latest regulations, all of which can be found on the Welsh Government website and are widely publicised in the media.”