Extra officers on patrol over weekend after hundreds flock to seaside town

North Yorkshire Police said that extra officers had been out on patrol this weekend - and that they had been proactive in engaging with members of the public and asking the reason for their journey.

On Facebook they said: "Let's stick with the great efforts we have seen from so many people throughout the pandemic, and keep doing the right thing."

This comes after officials have identified the first UK cases of the Manaus variant of coronavirus, a new strain that may spread more rapidly and respond less well to existing vaccines.

Public Health England (PHE) said on Sunday that six cases of the concerning P.1 variant first detected in the Brazilian city have been confirmed in Britain, three in England and three in Scotland.

Two were confirmed in South Gloucestershire but the third English case has not been located and could be anywhere in the nation, as PHE says the person did not complete their test registration card so their contact details are unavailable.

There was also a large police presence on approaches to Sandhaven Beach, in South Tyneside, as compliance notices were handed to motorists heading to the popular stretch of coastline.

READ MORE: Police issue warnings to sunseekers heading to seaside

North Yorkshire Police also said: "Thank you to everyone in York and North Yorkshire who is staying at home, protecting the NHS and saving lives. We really appreciate your support this weekend.

"COVID-19 hasn't gone away: please carry on sticking to the rules, so we can continue to move towards better times ahead."