AN INVESTIGATION has been launched over reports a group of student Dorset Police officers met in the grounds of a golf club during the current coronavirus lockdown.

The force has been carrying out a probe over a potential breach of Covid-19 regulations following the incident earlier this month.

The student officers are said to have met in the grounds of Ferndown Forest Golf Club on Tuesday, March 9.

Dorset Police has a station next door to the golf club in Forest Links Road.

An independent review is also underway after a Ferndown business was allegedly involved in the sale of alcohol.

A spokesperson for Dorset Police said: “Dorset Police became aware that a small number of student Dorset Police officers are alleged to have met in the grounds of Ferndown Golf Club on the morning of Tuesday, March 9, 2021, potentially in breach of Covid-19 legislation.

“The group were advised at the time about the current restrictions and were asked to leave.

“An investigation is underway in relation to the alleged breach. An internal investigation is underway to consider any appropriate misconduct proceedings.

“It is also alleged that a Ferndown business was involved in the sale of alcohol, in breach of Covid-19 legislation. An independent review of this matter will be carried out by the force’s licensing team.”

Later on the same day, a female student police officer was arrested by the force on suspicion of driving offences.

Officers approached the car parked off Forest Links Road and arrested the occupant, however after an investigation, the force confirmed no further action would be taken.

The spokesperson added: “At around 11pm on Tuesday, March 9, officers approached a red Vauxhall Astra that was parked off Forest Links Road in Ferndown.

“The female occupant was arrested on suspicion of a driving offence.

“Following an investigation by the road policing team it was concluded that no offences were committed, and no further police action would be taken. We can confirm that the woman who was arrested is a student police officer at Dorset Police.”

The incidents come as golf courses remain closed due to the Covid restrictions. Current rules states people can meet outside with one person from outside their household for recreation and exercise. Golf cannot resume until March 29, at the earliest.