POLICE say social distancing "appears to have gone out the window" in Bewdley town centre.

Officers took to social media to urge people to keep their distance when visiting the town, saying those who were ignoring social distancing rules were potentially putting others at risk.

Wyre Forest Police shared a message from Bewdley Safer Neighbourhood Team on Saturday, saying: "Another beautiful day, sun shining and the town very busy.

"Unfortunately social distancing appears to have gone out the window, potentially increasing the risk for everyone.

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"Social distancing is still very much a requirement when your out and about. Please if you decide to go out remember to keep your distance. #StayAlert #StaySafe"

Provisional figures show a significant reduction in the number of fines issued by police forces since coronavirus lockdown restrictions were eased in England.

Between May 12 and May 25,1,019 fines were given in England.

Data from this period shows the most fines - 178 - were given on Tuesday, May 12, the day before measures eased in England.

Since the start of lockdown, West Mercia Police has handed out 177 fixed penalty notices (FPN) since restrictions were introduced, according to the National Police Chief's Council. That's 27 since restrictions were eased.

In neighbouring areas, West Midlands Police had handed out 442 FPNs, Gloucestershire had 245, Staffordshire 53 and Warwickshire 40.