Police warn motorists they will be patrolling North Wales roads over Bank Holiday weekend as lockdown continues

Officers are warning motorists that they will be patrolling the roads of North Wales this May Day Bank Holiday weekend as the coronavirus lockdown continues.

With sunshine forecast for the weekend, North Wales Police fear many may be tempted to break the rules by heading out along the region’s scenic roads.

Despite the ongoing restrictions the forced has launched Operation Darwen – a campaign aimed at reducing deaths and serious injuries on the roads.

Superintendent Jane Banham of the Roads Policing Unit said: “Despite the travel restrictions we are still out there and we will continue to secure convictions and keep our roads safe from those who put their lives and other innocent road users at risk.

“Reducing casualties continues to be one of our top priorities and Operation Darwen is one of the many campaigns and initiatives that we run throughout the year targeting high-risk road users.

“Historically at this time of year we also see a high number of motorcyclists coming to North Wales due to the challenging nature of the roads. It is a fantastic area for riders, and we want them to be able to enjoy our beautiful region safely. However now is not to the time to visit and we continue to urge people to stay at home.”

North Wales Police continue to urge motorists only to drive if it is essential and to take extra care if they do drive to ease the burden on the NHS.

Supt Banham added: “This week we’ve seen a motorcyclist from outside the area colliding and injuring himself after he decided to travel to North Wales ‘for a spin.’

“Thankfully for him his injuries are not life threatening however he did use significant emergency service and NHS resources. He was also reported for breaching the COVID legislation.

“We continue to stress that fatal or serious collisions caused by taking risks and driving or riding at excess speed or whilst under the influence would require the use of the NHS, fire and police – all who are exceptionally busy because of COVID-19.

“Those involved in a serious collision are likely to end up in hospital, depriving people suffering from COVID-19 of precious NHS resources, precious medical care and potentially hospital beds.

“Taking these risks puts our communities and each other at risk. Please continue to stay at home – the sweeping bends and beautiful scenery will still be here and you will be welcomed back as soon as the time is right.”

Speeding and drink and drug driving is also an issue which is an ongoing trend that is causing concern and this weekend’s operation will also see colleagues from GoSafe being deployed on the region’s roads.

Officers have seen a 60% reduction in the volume of traffic on the roads but a 7% increase in speeding so they will continue to enforce those who think that the speed limit has changed.

Police will also be using data to patrol and target specific roads that have shown the greatest increase in speeding.

Social media users can follow the campaign via #OpDarwen and #Fatal5 hashtags.