MORE than 5,100 fines have been handed out for breaking coronavirus rules in Greater Manchester, figures have revealed.

National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC) data shows that Greater Manchester Police (GMP) issued 5,121 fixed penalty notices (FPN) between March 27, 2020 and April 18 this year.

Only the Metropolitan Police in London (16,775), Merseyside Police (7,281) and Northumbria (6,409) dished out more fines in that time.

Across England and Wales, 110,322 FPNs were issued during that period.

GMP has handed out the second highest amount of fines for breaching international travel restrictions (62).

And the force has also issued 19 fines to people for holding a gathering of more than 30 people and 73 FPNs for breaking face mask rules.

Five fines have been given to people in the area for not following the self-isolation rules.

NPCC chairman Martin Hewitt said: “We’re continuing to take encouraging steps out of lockdown. The number of fines processed have gone down again in the past four weeks, which is to be expected as restrictions are lifted.

“All of our hard work and sacrifice is paying off, and to ensure we continue to move in this direction, it’s important we keep the threat of Covid-19 at the forefront of our minds and stick to the rules at each stage of the roadmap.

“Despite these good signs, there are still a small number of people who blatantly disregard the rules, attending and organising large gatherings, such as illegal parties or unlicensed music events.

"Forces up and down the country have shut down a number of these selfish and unsafe events, and officers won’t let up in their efforts over the coming weeks.

“The same applies for large indoor gatherings, and any person who organises or attends these can also expect to be fined.

“Ahead of the bank holiday weekend, I also want to remind everyone that there are still limits on how many people can meet up in groups outside.

"As the weather has improved and restrictions have eased, we have seen several large gatherings in outdoor spaces, most commonly in parks.

“I understand that people are excited to see their friends and family again after such a long time, but it really is vital people continue to follow the rules at each stage of the government’s roadmap or we risk undermining our efforts up to now.

“Our officers will continue to carry out patrols and will engage with the public to keep explaining the restrictions which remain in place at the time.”