Dog owners snap up fines for picture trip

SEVERAL people have been fined for travelling from Swansea to Merthyr Tydfil to take a picture with their dogs.

South Wales Police said “several” fixed penalty notices were handed out on the weekend after the individuals travelled to take pictures of their dogs together in a large group.

The incident happened on Sunday while many people were seen visiting popular walking paths and beauty spots as the country enjoyed sunny weather.

A statement released by officers said: “Several fixed penalty notices have been issued today for breaking Covid restrictions to persons travelling from Swansea to Merthyr to take pictures of their dogs together in a large group. Stay safe and adhere to the current government restrictions.”

Over the weekend car parking spaces were blocked off in Cardiff Bay after crowds gathered in the area on Saturday. South Wales Police were seen dispersing groups around Cardiff Bay as the country enjoyed its warmest Saturday of the year so far.

Gathering outside has been one of the latest problems police have been faced with as the weather has started to improve. Police have now urged people to stick to the coronavirus rules following such reported gatherings.

Under current rules set by the Welsh Government, people in Wales are permitted to leave home as often as they like for exercise in their local area.

People are allowed to meet up with members of their household or support bubble, or with people from one other household as long as the total number does not exceed four, from a maximum of two households.

Mark Drakeford said the slight change in rules, which came into effect from February 20, “does not mean you can now drive somewhere to exercise and it does not mean socialising”.

South Wales Police has been asked for more information about the incident in Merthyr Tydfil, but the force was yet to respond at the time of going to press.