Under the UK's current lockdown rules, all pubs and restaurants located in tier 3 regions are closed, but pubs in tier 2 areas can remain open if they serve "substantial meals."

This has prompted some people who live in tier 3 areas to drive to tier 2 areas nearby so they can enjoy a pint.

However, it has now been revealed that authorities are using the region's Automatic Number Plate Recognition to track down COVID dissidents who leave their region via car.

"It is neither necessary or acceptable to leave a Tier 3 area and enter a lower tier area for a day trip or to visit a pub or restaurant for a meal," said North Yorkshire Police's Superintendent Mike Walker.

"Please also be reminded that your tier restrictions travel with you and police can take enforcement action against you, if you should breach those restrictions," he added.

Fines for those found flouting the rules could eventually rise to £6,400.

Big Brother Watch director Silkie Carlo said the measures were further evidence of the UK's slide into a "totalitarian" state.