Two people have been issued coronavirus fines after being rescued from a cliff.
A group of three people are said to have travelled more than 30 miles from South Gloucestershire to climb Cheddar Gorge in Somerset on Sunday evening.
Two of the three people became stranded at the top of a cliff, whilst the third (who did not complete the climb) managed to contact the emergency services for help.
Four police officers and 20 fire service staff were part of the lengthy rescue operation.
Avon and Somerset Police say the trio “were reported for breaching Covid regulations”.
Somerset Area Commander Mike Prior said: “Climbing the Gorge in near darkness is extremely unwise under any circumstances. However, it’s also particularly concerning that the individuals chose to make this unnecessary journey in clear breach of Covid-19 regulations, which are in place to help protect the NHS and save lives.
“This reckless decision resulted in a complicated and lengthy rescue, requiring the temporary closure of the B3135 Cliff road, and attendance from multiple emergency services, including four police officers and 20 fire service staff.
“Once again, we are urging people stay at home and avoid all unnecessary travel. We will not hesitate to issue fines to those deliberately breaching the regulations with no regard for the safety of others.”
