Peterborough residents told not to travel out of city apart from for exceptional reasons

As part of the strict restrictions, all non essential shops have had to close, and pubs, bars, cafes and restaurants are only able to serve takeaway goods.

The restrictions mean residents should stay at home unless in it necessary to go out.

However, many of the areas bordering the city are in tier 2, meaning pubs and restaurants can open (subject to some restrictions), as can non-essential shops - and there are fears that some Peterborough residents are crossing to neighbouring towns.

Director of Public Health Northamptonshire for Lucy Wightman, said: “Positive case rates in Northamptonshire are already on an upward trend, hospital services are at capacity and case rates amongst our elderly are rising. We need to make sure we are doing everything we can to protect our residents.

"“Reports that residents from other areas may be coming to our county from Tier Three or Tier Four areas, with the danger that they might also be bringing with them the coronavirus, is frightening. COVID-19 has now mutated to be up to 70 per cent more contagious than before and adherence to the guidelines is absolutely vital.”

Cambridgeshire police said they would not be patrolling the city boundaries, but would take action if breaches were reported.

A spokesman said: "“We will not be conducting Covid-related patrols on the county borders. However, if we are aware of potential breaches we will continue to engage with people, explain the restrictions and encourage them to change their behaviour. Enforcement is an option as a last resort or for blatant breaches. We are working closely with partners in neighbouring counties and regularly liaise with them as part of efforts to protect communities.”