OVER 1,900 fines have been handed out in North-East and North Yorkshire for flouting Covid lockdown rules.

Latest figures published by the National Police Chiefs' Council for each police force in England and Wales has revealed the number of fines for every alleged breach of lockdown rules.

Recorded over a period between March 27 - four days after lockdown officially began - and September 21, a total of 1905 fines were issued in the region.

On Teesside, Cleveland Police issued 298 fines for alleged breaches in the time period.

Durham Police said it had issued 178 fines to people who were caught in County Durham and Darlington.  

Northumbria Police, which covers Northumberland and Tyne and Wear, issued 278 fines.

Officers in North Yorkshire issued the highest number of fines, with the police force giving out a total of 1,151 to people breaching the rules. 

In England, the total number of Covid fines issued was 16,240, while Wales this figure stood at 2,672, including 24 from the British Transport Police.

This brings the total in England and Wales to 18,912.

How much are the fines and when will you get them?

Alongside emergency powers to help tackle the pandemic, the amount a person in England and Wales can be fined was increased.

People who are part of a group and refuse to separate can be given a £100 fixed penalty notice, but this is halved if it is paid within 14 days. 

But Covid fines double with every offence, capping at six, meaning rule-breakers could face £3,200.

Organisers of illegal gatherings in England - like raves and house parties - can also be fined £10,000.