WEST Dunbartonshire and Argyll police division has been ranked the second worst in Scotland for people flouting social distancing measures after figures reveal cops informed nearly 550 people they had to move on.

Between Friday, March 27 and Thursday, April 23, officers dispersed 542 people after they were spoken to about breaching guidelines.

Meanwhile, 152 people were issued fixed penalty notices, eight have been arrested and 19 people were returned home using reasonable force.

In neighbouring Glasgow, a total of 1,732 people were moved on after being spoken to by police, and a further 311 issued fines.

The figures have been revealed as police ask residents across the country to stick with social distancing to protect the NHS and save lives.

Deputy Chief Constable Malcolm Graham, strategic lead for Police Scotland’s coronavirus response, said: “In Scotland, we have been able to maintain a highly visible presence in our communities as our officers and staff work round the clock to engage with our fellow citizens, explain these requirements and encourage people to co-operate with them.

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“The message is clear – you should only leave the house for very limited purposes.

“Avoid driving as much as possible.

“Use spaces close to home for exercise and do not drive for leisure.

“Do not hold house parties with people from out with your household.

“As these restrictions persist and the warm weather sustains, people must not be tempted to ignore that message.

“If you are out and about, officers may ask you why.

“Please, explain your individual circumstances, listen to their instructions, and obey the law.

“We will, as we have been required to do on a very infrequent basis, take enforcement action where necessary.

“On the small number of occasions where officers have taken action, this has largely been in response to house parties or public gatherings, while a small minority of irresponsible and selfish people – who repeatedly and wilfully break the law – have now received fixed penalty notices.”