REVELLERS at an illegal house party in Colchester have been fined for breaching coronavirus regulations.

Essex Police visited the property on Thursday, February 11, following up on reports from members of the public.

Around 20 people scattered from the scene when officers arrived.

But a further 11 who were inside the property were issued with fixed penalty notices for breaching Covid regulations.

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A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We know this is a really challenging time but we really appreciate all the efforts of the vast majority of people across Essex who are continuing to do the right thing. It really is making a difference.

"We will continue to respond to clear and blatant breaches and, where they occur, work with our partners to resolve them.

We want people to continue to report Covid-19 breaches.

"You can report them via our website by using our digital 101 service, where you can speak to one of our operators via Live Chat, any day between 7am and 11pm."

What are the penalties for breaching Covid rules?

Fines of up to £10,000 can be issued for breaching the rules, with an initial fine of £200 on the first offence.

Essex Police have a tool for reporting individuals, groups, or businesses thought to be in breach of regulations.

You can find it here. 

In emergency cases only, it is recommended to dial 999 if you feel any of the following factors apply:

• Is there a threat to life (including road traffic incidents where someone is injured or the road is blocked)

• Does it feel like the situation could get heated or violent very soon

• Is there a risk of serious damage to property

• Is a serious offence in progress

• There's serious disruption to the public or there could be

What are the rules? 

Under the lockdown rules people are advised to stay at home as much as possible - unless they have a reasonable excuse.

Exemptions to the rules include buying necessities for your household or someone vulnerable.

You can also exercise outside as much as you like, either alone or with members of your own household.

There is a new rule allowing you to meet one friend or family member from another household in a public space to exercise.

Meeting in larger groups is against the law apart from specific exceptions where people from different households can gather in groups.

The police can take action against you if you meet in groups.