Kent Police has had to withdraw a number of lockdown fines wrongly issued by its officers.

Figures collected by the National Police Chiefs’ Council up until May 29 showed 125 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) had been issued to people who had breached the government public health regulations.

But the overall figure, as of June 8, has dipped to 117 - showing eight were incorrectly issued.

The circumstances surrounding the mistaken fines are not known but legitimate grounds for a fine include driving with non-household members, house parties, large gatherings of people from different households, and camping.

Assistant Chief Constable Claire Nix said: "This is a revised figure from the 125 fines published a fortnight previously, and takes into account a number of fines that were withdrawn due to them having been incorrectly issued."

The withdrawn fines came at a time when government advisor Dominic Cummings was being widely criticised for breaking lockdown rules.

But KentOnline can confirm none of those scrapped related to travelling for childcare, the excuse he gave.

She continued: "Kent Police officers are continuing to patrol locations across the county to engage with anyone found in breach of the coronavirus restrictions, to explain why they are necessary and to encourage them to comply. Enforcement through the issuing of fixed penalty notices is only being used as an absolute last resort in line with national guidance.

"The relatively low number of fines issued is a reflection on the positive engagement my officers have had with people in the community and how the majority are adhering to the restrictions. We would much rather encourage people to follow the rules than reach a point where we have no other option but to issue them with a fine.

"I would like to thank the vast majority of people in Kent who are continuing to play their part by staying alert to help control the spread of the virus and save lives. Covid-19 remains a serious threat and we cannot afford to be complacent and risk a second wave."

Across England, a total of 15,715 Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs) have been recorded by forces up to June 8, with 2,282 FPNs issued in Wales for the same timeframe.

The most fines - a total of 96 - were dished out on Saturday, May 30. Fines have been more likely to be given at weekends and during periods of warmer weather.

Since measures were first eased on May 13, a total of 1,526 FPNs have been issued.

From June 1 when it was made lawful for groups of up to six people to meet outdoors in England, a total of 161 FPNs were issued. The majority of fines continue to be issued to males in the 18-24 age group.

National Police Chiefs’ Council Chair, Martin Hewitt said: “We’re now near to closing the first month away from full lockdown.

"Soon, shops will be open again, and there will be more people outdoors going about their business. Our approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging continues to be successful. Since measures eased in England, the number of fines issued has seen a sustained fall.

“Behind each fine is a case where someone has failed to listen and do the right thing. A fine is issued following engagement to establish the circumstances, explanation of what the regulations are and why they’re in breach of them, and encouragement to stop their activity and return home.

“Officers have used their common sense and discretion to take in to account people’s individual circumstances. We will only enforce as a last resort, against those who are in clear breach of the regulations.

“I would like to thank the vast majority of people who are continuing, as they have always done, to abide by the lockdown measures and the Government’s advice.”

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