GREATER Manchester Police (GMP) has handed out more than 5,200 fines for alleged coronavirus breaches.

Data published by the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) shows that the force has dished out 5,247 fixed penalty notice (FPN) fines between March 27, 2020 and May 16 this year.

Only the Metropolitan Police in London (17,347), Merseyside Police (7,360) and Northumbria Police (6,712) have issued more FPNs.

GMP has handed out the second most fines for breaking international travel Covid-19 rules (63) and has given 21 FPNs for holding a gathering of more than 30 people.

Police in England and Wales have now processed 115,203 FPNs for breaching restrictions in the latest statistics.

NPCC chairman Martin Hewitt said: “As expected, the number of fines processed in the last four weeks has fallen significantly and reflects the encouraging strides we are making out of lockdown.Despite the further easing of restrictions and being able to meet families and friends again, we mustn’t forget that there are still some restrictions in place.The emergence of new variants in recent weeks has reinforced the need for us all to be responsible and follow the remaining rules.

"For the selfish minority who continue to blatantly break the rules, such as organising or attending illegal indoor gatherings, officers won’t hesitate to take necessary enforcement action.

“As restrictions ease across the country, I understand people will want to go out and enjoy themselves, but this still needs to be done responsibly and safely.

“Officers will continue to be out in communities helping to stop the spread of this virus and keep us on track with the government’s roadmap.”