Police and health officials will join forces this weekend in a crackdown on breaches of Covid-19 regulations.

A Government spokeswoman said that events with large group exemptions should expect to be visited to ensure they have stuck to the rules.

She was speaking after David Burt, the Premier, warned: “Licensed premises and indoor bars and restaurants can expect the same. The enforcement will be broad, and my expectation is also that it will be fair.

“This is the only way that we will ease the growing pressure on the various elements of our healthcare system, which are stretched and stressed.”

Police, Police Reserves and health ministry staff will visit bars, restaurants, clubs and other places amid an sharp increase in coronavirus cases.

The spokeswoman added that breaches of the regulations carried a $500 fine and officers would issue tickets for violations.

She said events or premises that are not compliant will be closed.

The spokeswoman added: “Where these regulations are followed we can continue to adjust and not interrupt our lives.

“Those establishments and venues that are following the rules have contributed to the return of economic activity and psychological wellbeing for the island.

“The enforcement effort will be focused on ensuring compliance and the public can be assured that events or establishments that are not compliant will be closed as the proven risk to public safety and wellbeing is too great.”

The spokeswoman said the regulations mask-wearing indoors and, in some cases, outdoors.

She added: “SafeKey has been proven an effective means of hosting safe events but it too must be used properly.

“Venues are reminded that SafeKey plus ID is a must. One without the other puts patrons and attendees at risk.”