Fury as North Yorkshire cops launch border patrols & number plate recognition cameras to stop entry of Tier 3 neighbours

COPS in North Yorkshire have launched border patrols with a number plate recognition camera to stop Tier 3 drivers entering the county.

The overzealous officers have sparked a furious response from locals after warning they would face “enforcement action” if they drive over the border.

North Yorkshire is almost entirely surrounded by counties in Tier 3 restrictions, while in Tier 2 itself.

Police are using the tactics to stop people from other areas who are keen to go to the pub from entering the county.

Superintendent Mike Walker said: “I realise there may be some confusion over what is deemed necessary in these circumstances, so I’d like to be clear here.

“It is neither necessary or acceptable to leave a Tier 3 area and enter a lower tier area for a day trip or to visit a pub or restaurant for a meal.

“Please also be reminded that your tier restrictions travel with you and police can take enforcement action against you, if you should breach those restrictions.”

He added those in Tier 3 should not “try to side-step the tighter restrictions” and warned officers will be “actively patrolling” with an ANPR.

He finished: “North Yorkshire is well-known for its hospitality and warmth, but right now we have to ask visitors to stay in their own tier area for the health and safety of our most vulnerable residents.

“If you have a visit planned, please reschedule to a time where we are able to give you a proper welcome to our beautiful county.”

‘RIDICULOUS’

But people on social media rounded on the force for the extreme measures.

One person dubbed the officers the “local Gestapo” and another wrote: “Absolutely ridiculous… It’s like the Jerry Springer show these rules.

“York will be back to tier 3 soon enough. Because viruses don’t stop at the border.”

Tier 3 residents are encouraged not to leave their local area and have to live under much harsher rules.

Anyone who moves from a higher tier to a lower tier must continue acting as if they are still in the higher tier regulations, although moving between two is frowned upon.

Earlier we told how police said they won’t be snooping on pubs to check drinkers are eating a ‘substantial meal’ as punters fumed over the new rules.

It comes as boozers flung open their doors again yesterday in Tier 1 and 2, but have got to stick to strict regulations.

Depending on what tier you live in, Brits are once more able to enjoy a socially distanced pint with pals.

Pubs have curated special menus with cheaper fare specifically for people in Tier 2 to order alongside drinks – with one savvy landlord launching a £1.99 “Boris Menu”.

In Tier 3 it’s takeaway only for pubs and restaurants, with people having to wait a little longer to get their hands on a proper pint.