NEW guidance has been issued to police to clarify what constitutes a breach of the current coronavirus lockdown measures.

Issued on Tuesday, March 31, the information from the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and College of Policing makes it clear that people can drive a reasonable distance to exercise.

The instruction to officers reads: "Use your judgement and common sense; for example, people will want to exercise locally and may need to travel to do so, we don’t want the public sanctioned for travelling a reasonable distance to exercise.

"Road checks on every vehicle are equally disproportionate. We should reserve enforcement only for individuals who have not responded to Engage, Explain, and Encourage, where public health is at risk."

However, Devon and Cornwall Police said it would not be changing its advice on travelling.

The Government's advice remains the same:

- Only go outside for essential food, health reasons, to exercise or to work, but only if you cannot work from home

- If you go out, stay two metres (6ft) away from other people at all times

- Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: "There has been much discussion around what the legislation does and doesn’t specifically prohibit. The legal aspects of the legislation are based upon whether a person’s actions are reasonable or not.

"Officers will continue to make individual judgements based on the specific circumstances presented to them.

"The key to making this work for everyone in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, and across the country, is for everyone to be reasonable.

"If you can exercise with a run or a walk near your home, it is reasonable for you to do so. Our interpretation is that it is not reasonable, for the majority, to drive miles to a specific place such as a beauty spot.

"It is also not within the spirit of what we are trying to achieve if you drive from Devon to the coast of Cornwall for surfing, regardless of whether that is 'lawful' or not.

"We are grateful that our communities understand what we are all trying to achieve together and are supporting us with this. We have not had to use any enforcement, and will only use this as a last resort. Officers will continue to use discretion and police with consent.

"We enjoy the relationship we have with our communities and will continue to engage with people we meet, to provide reassurance and education at this challenging time."