TRADERS were told to close up shop early at a local market after police raised concerns about social distancing.

Thames Valley Police said it was called to 'reports of an excessive number of people' gathering at a market in Lower Earley on Saturday, February 27.

The force said officers found a number of people putting themselves and others at risk due to a 'lack of social distancing and non-wearing of masks'.

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Police confirmed that organisers agreed to close the market early for the safety of the public and no fines were issued.

Superintendent Gavin Wong said: "No fines were issued, and the incident was reported to the local authority to consider if any further formal action should be taken."

He added: "We are committed to engaging, explaining, and encouraging the public, and will only move to enforcement as a last resort.

"We really do recognise that this is a tough time for people, but we must all continue to play our part, and we all have a responsibility to ensure that we maintain our commitment to the restrictions so that we can emerge from lockdown.

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"We’re committed to working together with our communities to make them safer, and we thank you for your continued support at this challenging time."