RESIDENTS have been warned as children disregard coronavirus rules to meet in public parks.

Police in Hedge End have asked parents to clearly explain to children the current coronavirus rules and the consequences if they are breached.

This comes after several children, not from the same household, were seen meeting up and gathering in public parks including Greta Park and Woodhouse Skate park.

In a social media post, police stressed the importance of following the rules and warned of fines for those who do not abide by them.

A police spokesperson said: "Unfortunately we are not out of lockdown just because the sun has come out.

"If we find children not from the same household gathered anywhere i.e. in parks, outside shops, we will be treating this as a blatant breach and will be following this up with parents, guardians to report the parents, guardians for summons in relation to fixed penalty notices due to Covid-19 breaches.

"We are tasked to enforce the law and protect the public. Maintaining the best service to the public, protecting officers and staff, and supporting the nationwide response are our top priorities."