WREXHAM pubs have been warned to expect action after a "steady stream of reports" of premises operating ‘lockdown lock-ins’ in the county.

Wrexham Council says Public Protection and North Wales Police have been dealing with a "steady stream of complaints about a small minority of premises" having so-called ‘lock-down lock-ins’ and have warned that action will be taken against anyone breaking the law.

Wrexham Council says any licensed premises open for business are liable to enforcement action – including prosecution – and risk losing their license to sell alcohol.

A spokesman said: "If you’re going to the pub, or thinking of going, think twice. You too will be breaking the law and could face a fixed penalty or even prosecution.

"Police and Public Protection are patrolling and actively following up on information they receive.

"Stay at home, protect the NHS, save lives."

Nevertheless, Wrexham Council says its Public Protection service has been "really impressed" with the positive response of the "vast majority" of the licensed trade to the recent closure of pubs and restaurants.

It says these businesses are doing the right thing, despite the damage these closures are undoubtedly doing to their trade.

The emergency laws behind these closures have been imposed due to the coronavirus, and are described as ‘absolutely crucial’ in helping to slow the spread of the virus.