PEOPLE planning to visit outdoor destinations across St Helens and surrounding areas over the Easter weekend are being urged to "stick to the rules" as coronavirus restrictions gradually ease.

The police advice follows reports of anti-social behaviour this week - particularly in coastline areas.

The aim is to encourage safe travel and parking and help ensure people can enjoy outdoor beauty spots safely.

As the 'rule of six' has now returned, it is expected that people will be keen to catch up with family and friends outdoors over Easter - with a maximum of six people in total, or any number of people from only two households.

Children of all ages do count as part of the group of six, and the mixing of households indoors is still not permitted.

In partnership with local authorities and the NHS, Merseyside Police has an extensive policing plan in place to help protect public health across the region.

Anyone who officers find gathering in large groups or mixing indoors will be dealt with appropriately and face enforcement action.

Chief Inspector Peter Clark said: "After a long winter it's understandable that people want to get outside and mix with loved ones, particularly in good weather, but we would like everyone to follow the coronavirus restrictions that remain in place.

"Please remember to social distance in outdoor areas, including parks, open spaces and coastline beauty spots, as crowded areas are more likely to risk a resurgence in coronavirus.

"If you're going out, please park legally and respect any residents who live in the area."

On Tuesday, several reports were received of large groups of youths travelling to Formby beach, and reports people were consuming alcohol and some starting small fires. Upon the arrival of patrols the group dispersed. 

A Dispersal Zone was introduced in the area, which runs until 7pm tonighton - giving officers powers to direct people they suspect are causing or likely to cause crime, nuisance or anti-social behaviour to leave a designated area and not return for up to 48 hours.  

Chief Inspector Peter Clark continued: "Those who do not social distance, who gather in larger groups and engage in anti-social behaviour not only risk spoiling the experience for everyone else, but risk setting us back as we look to move out of the challenging period we have all faced in the past 12 months.

"Officers will continue to patrol on foot and in vehicles across Merseyside to ensure people are aware of the rules and meeting up as safely as possible.

"It's important that we continue to follow Public Health guidelines to avoid any delay in the easing of restrictions in future - so thank you to everyone for all they have done to reduce the spread of Covid-19 so far."