POLICE are hailing the 'relatively peaceful' reopening of pubs, bars and restaurants over the weekend after 10 arrests linked to Cheshire's nighttime economy.

Two people were arrested for drink driving in Northwich and Wilmslow, while a man was arrested following a serious assault outside a pub in Warrington.

There were also arrests for people who were drunk and disorderly in Nantwich and Macclesfield, while officers advised two pubs to close in Crewe and Sandbach for failing to adhere to coronavirus restrictions.

Supt Julie Westgate said: “There has been lots of coverage regarding the reopening of licensed premises from July 4 and fortunately, here in Cheshire, this passed relatively peacefully.

“While there were a small number of isolated incidents linked to the night time economy, the overwhelming majority of people behaved responsibly and adhered to the Covid-19 restrictions that remain in place.

"I would like to thank everyone who helped to play their part in continuing in keeping the people of Cheshire safe.

“It was also encouraging to see the measures put in place by Cheshire licensees to keep their customers as safe as possible.”

Throughout the weekend there was a dedicated policing operation with an increased police presence at a number of key locations across the county.

Cheshire Police says it will continue to monitor the situation both nationally and across the county following this latest operation.

David Keane, Cheshire's police and crime commissioner, said: “The past few months have been an extremely difficult time for many local business, including licensed premises, so it’s pleasing to see that the weekend passed without any serious incidents here in Cheshire.

Knutsford Guardian:

“I would like to thank all of the officers who were involved in the policing operation, as well as all the licensees for their support.

“As coronavirus restrictions evolve over the coming weeks and months it is important to remember that the threat of coronavirus has not gone away and while pubs and restaurants are reopening, things will not simply go back to normal straight away.

“It is important that Cheshire residents continue to stay alert to the threat of the virus and continue to follow social distancing measures put in place to protect us”

Supt Westgate added: “Our officers will use common sense and discretion when dealing with the public to determine what is reasonable, with officers engaging, explaining, encouraging and, only as a last resort, enforcing."