POLICE have issued more than 150 fines to people in one week for breaking COVID-19 regulations across the region.

The fixed penalty notices (FPNs) have been issued to 155 law breakers - with some 4,000 people spoken to regarding the new lockdown rules.

West Midlands Police said it has also dispersed 179 people and has arrested one person arrested for not following the law, since the new lockdown came into effect on November 5.

A statement released by the force said: "We have patrolled across the force during which we have spoken to 3,788 and advised them on the government legislation. "Coronavirus remains a deadly disease and the restrictions in place to prevent its spread are set by the Government.

"Our approach remains the four E’s meaning that we engage with the public, explain the regulations and encourage people to follow them.

"In the minority of cases where this doesn’t happen then we have no alternative than to enforce the restrictions.

"We continue to urge the public to follow the rules, the greater effort we can all make now to prevent the spread of the virus, the greater opportunities we may have to enjoy our festive celebrations."

It has released a video of officers in action here.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Claire Bell, who is leading the force’s response to Coronavirus, said: “We thank everyone who is doing their bit to help us through this pandemic and save lives.

"Most people are adhering to the new restrictions, we understand this is difficult however the restrictions are in place to keep us all safe.

“We will continue to police these restrictions and dangerous breaches as they are a clear public health risk.”

Fines issued under Coronavirus legislation are processed by ACRO (Criminal Records Office) on behalf of police forces in England and Wales.

The funds from these payments will be distributed to local authorities in line with the legislation.