POLICE are warning Wharfedale residents to respect the COVID-19 tier system - even where it leaves them following different rules from their neighbours.

West Yorkshire was placed into the most severe, Tier 3, bracket following the ending of the second national lockdown on December 2.

North Yorkshire, however, was placed into the less restrictive Tier 2 category which means pubs, restaurants and cafes there have been allowed - unlike those in Tier 3 areas - to stay open there so long as they follow ‘covid-secure’ rules.

The tier system has thrown up some odd scenarios locally due to where the county boundary line between North and West Yorkshire lies. In Otley it has left many householders on Throstle Nest Close and the Riverside estate areas under the lower tier restrictions while their neighbours are in Tier 3.

Despite the potential for confusion North Yorkshire Police is warning residents that they must obey the rules. The Force’s lead for its Covid response, Superintendent Mike Walker, said: “I would encourage residents to consult the relevant Government guidance for their area and ensure they are aware of what they can and can’t do.

“Those living in Tier 3 areas are advised not to travel out of the area unless it is necessary, such as for work or education.

“I realise there may be some confusion over what is deemed necessary in these circumstances, so I’d like to be clear here; it is neither necessary or acceptable to leave a Tier 3 area and enter a lower tier area for a day trip or to visit a pub or restaurant for a meal.

“Please also be reminded that your tier restrictions travel with you and police can take enforcement action against you if you should breach those restrictions.

“To those living in Tier 3 areas, please do not try to side-step the tighter restrictions in your area by visiting neighbouring Tier 2 areas for a day or night out. If you do you may inadvertently bring the virus in with you and increase the chance of transmission to local residents.

“North Yorkshire Police will be actively patrolling and will have an increased presence in these border areas and we will be policing the coronavirus regulations.”

He added: “North Yorkshire is well-known for its hospitality and warmth but right now we have to ask visitors to stay in their own tier area for the health and safety of our most vulnerable residents.”

Councillor Colin Campbell (Lib Dem, Otley & Yeadon) echoed those sentiments: “I would urge everyone to approach this with a little common sense as, whatever the government restrictions, COVID-19 remains very dangerous. A vaccine is on the way but in the meantime it is important that all of us, wherever we are, remember to wash hands, wear a mask and observe social distancing.”