The man in charge of policing in Cornwall and Devon has warned: "If we have to enforce we will."

Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer has released a video message after new government powers came into operation giving officers the ability to issue fines and even arrest people for flouting the lockdown rules.

These are to stay at home except to pick up essential supplies, exercise once a day, travel as a keyworker or in an emergency situation.

The rules also state that people should remain in family units and not mix with others, with all non-essential travel banned.

Chief Constable Sawyer has now spoken directly to the "wilful few" that continue to ignore these regulations.

He said: "The government has given us more powers in support of our national endeavour to save the NHS, to save lives, to keep us all safe.

"We police by consent and in our communities of Devon and Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly we're a welcoming force.

"We deal with crime and criminal justice, but this is an unseen enemy that literally kills. It is essential that you stay local, stay inside, stay safe and keep your social responsibility.

"The powers the government has given us are a last resort. We police by consent, we use our discretion. For those who are unsure we will advise, we will talk to you, we will encourage you.

"But for the wilful few over the days to come, if we have to enforce we will. And issue tickets, and if needs be arrest.

"Nobody wants that. If we reach that situation then we have all failed. We've all failed to understand the importance of this time and the essential need for all of us to keep each other safe.

"Thank you for your cooperation."