POLICE have commended Basingstoke residents for adhering to social distancing guidelines and being "mindful of others".

Members of the town’s neighbourhood policing team have been on patrol today (Saturday) and say “it’s nice to see” that most people are following the rules.

It comes after the government, police and local authorities urged residents to resist the temptation to leave their homes with the start of the Easter holidays this weekend and warm weather forecast for Sunday.

A message from the Basingstoke neighbourhood policing team read: “We are out and about keeping you safe, keeping two metres apart as recommended as part of social distancing.

“It's nice to see that the majority of people out today are keeping to the social distancing rules and are being mindful of others.”

“Please do follow the latest advice from our partners at Public Health England to keep yourself healthy and make sure that you leave the house when it is absolutely essential.”

“If you have a garden you can enjoy the nice weather from there instead of going to your local park.

“If you do need our assistance, please contact us on 101 or online via our website www.hampshire.police.uk”