MORE than 20 formal warnings for breaching Covid-19 rules were issued by police during New Year's Eve celebrations.

This year the government and emergency services urged the public to celebrate the start of 2021 at home, in order to adhere to the latest tier restrictions and help in preventing a further spread of the virus.

Wiltshire Police described December 31 as "a relatively quiet and peaceful New Year’s Eve", with "a relatively low number of incidents throughout the night".

The vast majority of calls to the force related to reports of potential house parties.

Shortly after 10pm police had attended a licenced premises in Trowbridge and found a small group of people attending a private party.

They were spoken to by officers and will be dealt with in due course.

Superintendent Adrian Burt said that the vast majority of people across Wiltshire had adhered to the Government's restrictions and seen in the new year at home with members of their own household.

He added: "Although there were a small number of incidents where people were flouting the rules, overall we saw a very quiet and peaceful New Year's Eve.

"I would like to thank our communities for their cooperation. I know that many will have been disappointed not to have had their usual celebrations, but it is clear that we need to work together to try to bring the spread of Covid-19 under control.

"Please remember that Swindon is currently in Tier 4, while Wiltshire is in Tier 3, so if you are unsure about the current restrictions, please visit gov.uk/coronavirus for further information.”