POLICE have threatened to issue tickets to those not adhering to social distancing and say it is “not good enough” that residents are still driving to dog walking areas in the town.

Officers were on patrol in the town today (Wednesday) say they were “shocked” at the number of people out and about in the town.

They say that Anton Lakes in particular was “as busy as a sunny Saturday afternoon” and that the lack of social distacning was "not good enough".

It comes after officers yesterday praised the town for its response to the government social distancing measures, but noted there was room for improvement with people still seen driving to exercise areas. This is deemed “non-essential” travel.

A message shared on the Test Valley Cops Facebook page today read: “We have been patrolling Andover today including our lakes. We are shocked to see how many people are out and about and driving to areas to walk their dogs.

“Social distancing means distancing, if everyone is walking around the lakes there is little to no distancing.

“Please read the government guidelines and use common sense while getting one form of exercise.

“Anton Lakes was as busy as a sunny Saturday afternoon today. This is not good enough, it is not safe, it is not helping your emergency services and you are putting yourself and your family in danger.

“We do not want to have to use our powers and issue tickets but we will.”