Police say they will hand out fines for people who refuse to keep within the rules for outdoor exercise.

Essex Police bosses say people doing the right thing makes a big difference in the Covid battle.

It comes after different interpretations and approaches have been taken across the country.

Government advice says: "You should minimise time spent outside your home, but you can leave your home to exercise. This should be limited to once per day, and you should not travel outside your local area."

A spokesman for Essex Police a "common sense approach" would be taken. 

They said: "We continue to take a common sense approach to the Government’s COVID-19 regulations and our officers continue to use their discretion.

"We continue to engage with people, explain the regulations, and encourage them to do the right thing.

"Where reasoned conversation has not been successful we will consider enforcement action.

"We are also continuing to respond to clear and blatant breaches of the regulations and, where they occur, work with our partners to resolve them.

"We know this is a really challenging time for everyone and we want to thank the public for their continuing support in following the regulations.

"Doing the right thing really does make a difference and it gives us more time to do what we do best – help people, keep people safe, and catch criminals."