Police watchdogs have commended the Leicestershire force for its effective approach to enforcement during the coronavirus pandemic.

In a virtual meeting, members of Leicestershire and Rutland Police and Crime Commissioner Lord Willy Bach's Ethics and Complaints Committee praised officers for the way they had handled new powers to stop the spread of the virus and their resilience in the face of unprecedented demand.

The committee heard how Leicestershire Police had to adopt new policing strategies to support the UK's efforts to protect the public, with almost daily changes in restrictions and enforcement powers during the height of the crisis.

Members were impressed with the force's focus on preserving and safeguarding lives, only using enforcement when absolutely necessary.

Committee chairman Karen Chouhan said: "I'm so proud of Leicestershire police right now - a 10-point Covid plan focused almost entirely on people's safety and health, while business continuity was also maintained including monitoring for any rises in hate crime."

Speaking after the meeting, Willy Bach said: "I wholeheartedly support the praise given to those frontline officers who worked throughout the pandemic with little thought or concern for their own safety.

"Against rapidly changing advice and enforcement responsibilities, the force remained measured, proportionate and effective in the way it handled this health emergency, only using their powers as a last resort.

"I'm proud of the sensitive way officers responded to the challenges and the emphasis on positive engagement.

"The majority of people living in Leicestershire and Rutland really did heed the warnings and stayed at home to protect the NHS and their efforts have made a difference."

The meeting is available to view on the PCC's website.