POLICE fined 12 revellers caught at a party in Colchester after finding nine of them hiding in cupboards at a property.

Essex Police have released the latest list of offences for which Covid fines have been handed out across the county.

On Saturday night, a group of 12 partygoers were given Fixed Penalty Notices after being caught flouting the Covid rules at an address in Colchester.

The group, who were aged between 12 and 32, were enjoying some drinks together when police arrived.

Nine of them were found hiding in cupboards and wardrobes, trying to avoid officers.

A spokesman for Essex Police said: "We all miss socialising with our friends on a Saturday night but having a party is currently prohibited." 

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The spokesman added: "The Covid-19 infection rate in Essex remains low. However, some areas of the county have seen an increase in the number of infections in the past week.

"With lockdown restrictions due to ease on March 29, we must continue to stick to the Government’s guidelines to protect ourselves, our families and the NHS.

"This means staying at home, avoiding unnecessary journeys and isolating when required to.

"Any surge in cases could put unsustainable pressure on our local hospitals and lead to delays in implementing the Government’s proposed timetable. 

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

"But, where reasoned conversation is not successful, we will consider enforcement action."