Police chief asks people to 'wait a little longer' before returning to Devon and Cornwall

People who want to travel to Devon and Cornwall following the easing of lockdown restrictions have been asked to "wait a little longer".

• Dartmoor National Park asks public to consider safety of locals before visiting

The Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police, Shaun Sawyer, has asked people from outside the force area to continue staying away while the pandemic continues.

It follows [Boris Johnson's announcement](http://What you can and can) that people living in England can travel unlimited distances to exercise outside.

This has caused concern among council leaders and tourism bosses in the West Country, who fear an influx of visitors could impact public health.

The police chief said residents in Devon and Cornwall have also expressed worry - saying they would prefer visitors to remain in their local areas.

Mr Sawyer added the easing of lockdown is "challenging" in terms of policing, but the force will continue to "positively engage" with the public.

The Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, Andy Marsh, echoed the same thoughts when he spoke to ITV West Country on Wednesday 13 May, when restrictions were first eased.

Read more coronavirus updates from the West Country:

• Coronavirus antibody test is 100% accurate, says Public Health England

• Coronavirus: The South West reacts to the easing of lockdown

• Special needs school closes as two teachers test positive for coronavirus

• Police respond to ‘mass gathering events’ planned in Bristol