Photographs show huge difference in Matlock Bath as lockdown laws are now adhered to

Three weeks ago a photograph of Matlock Bath showing the tourism hotspot swarming with visitors caused outrage among those following social distancing measures aimed at reducing the spread of coronavirus.

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Derbyshire Police said visitors had flocked there as though it was a ‘Bank Holiday weekend’ and ‘not the first weekend of self isolation and social distancing’.

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The following day the government introduced stricter social distancing measures and placed the UK on lockdown in a bid to drive home the importance of isolating to stop the spread of the deadly virus, which has now claimed over 10,000 lives in the UK.

Today, Derbyshire’s roads policing unit commended those who stayed at home over Easter.

In a tweet, the team released a new photograph showing how deserted Matlock Bath had been and said the image was a ‘social distancing barometer’.

The team said: “Excellent weather and good to very good compliance with the social distancing rules.

“Selfish non-team players were identified and dealt with as per ‘engage, explain, encourage and enforce guidelines.

“Stay Home Save Lives.”

Under lockdown rules people are only permitted to leave home for shopping, medical supplies or appointments, exercise once a day and essential travel to work.

Across the UK more than 10,000 people have died after contracting coronavirus.

In Derbyshire there have been 38 fatalities since the outbreak began.

It has been revealed that members of the armed forces have been drafted in to help ambulance services dealt with the pandemic.