From the start of the pandemic Wiltshire Police have carried out Covid patrols to crack down on those who flout the rules.

The Gazette was invited to join Devizes police community support officer Andrew Maclachlan on a Friday night, so I took up the opportunity to go with them as they checked on known hotspots for gatherings and businesses that have breached restrictions during lockdown.

The shift started in Melksham but we were called back to an incident in Devizes. Police needed the van to transport a prisoner so we switched to the traditional patrol car.

Heading back into Melksham, Andrew’s patrol list included two specific locations to stake out – neither of which can be named as they are part of wider police investigations.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

“We build up a pattern,” he told me. “Certain areas get reported and even if no-one is there once we arrive, it’s somewhere we can add to our logs and return to. If people call, that can build up an even bigger picture for us.”

The first business, in a suburban area, had been reported to the police for breaching Covid rules before. Likewise, the second had received prior warnings and was of continued interest to the police.

PCSO Maclachlan pulled up outside the establishments under the cover of darkness to survey the scene and see if there was indeed a breach – this evening all was well.

He said: “The first lockdown there was a little more uncertainty and some people would say they didn’t know the rules or had said they had made a mistake. But this time around, there’s no excuse for not knowing the rules and what you are and are not allowed to do. It has been a year and people should know.”

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

After one final stop in Melksham, to check on a car park and skatepark, it was back to Devizes. Police had received a call about a group gathering and smashing bottles at the Green Lane skate park.

On the outskirts of Devizes, up a dark path next to Drews Pond Nature Reserve, it was a delicate walk to reach the skate park.

The Wiltshire Gazette and Herald:

Once on the scene, no trace remained apart from glass shards and litter strewn across the park. “After a call-out like this, this gives us the chance to add another location to the list,” said Andrew.

“This is why I’d always encourage people to phone as it builds a bigger picture of where we should be.

“This virus isn’t going away and we need to be vigilant. Following the rules is important for everyone’s safety.”