Kent Police has issued its first fine for non-compliance with regulations about wearing a face mask to a woman in Folkestone .

Until yesterday, Kent - in common with the vast majority of police forces across the country - had preferred to usual gentle persuasion rather than enforcement when dealing with people not wearing masks in shops or on public transport, but the force has now become only the fourth in England to issue a fine.

The others are British Transport Police and the Lincolnshire and Lancashire forces.

The £100 fixed penalty was issued to a woman who was verbally abusive and swore at an officer at the Seabrook BP Petrol Station on Seabrook Road in Folkestone, when he attempted to engage with her for not wearing a face covering.

Assistant Chief Constable Claire Nix said: "Kent Police officers are continuing to patrol locations across the county to engage with anyone found in breach of the coronavirus restrictions, to explain why they are necessary and to encourage them to comply."

"Enforcement is only being used as a last resort in line with national guidance."

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone

For the latest coronavirus news and advice, click here.