POLICE have warned motorists after more than 250 fines were issued across Dorset during the last bank holiday weekend for 'irresponsible parking and illegal overnight parking'.

Swarms of visitors hit Dorset across the early May bank holiday weekend (May 1-3) and are expected to do the same for the spring bank holiday (May 29-31) after the Government eases lockdown restrictions further.

However, Dorset Police are asking motorists not to 'block' access for others after 258 fines were issued by Dorset Council over the early May bank holiday weekend.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "We know a trip to Dorset is high on the list for many people.

"We're advising people to plan ahead so you know where you can park and find somewhere else to park considerately and safely if you find car parks are full.

"Please respect our communities by not blocking driveways or parking on pavements.

"A total of 258 fines were issued by Dorset Council over the bank holiday weekend to irresponsibly parked cars and illegal overnight parking."

The warning comes after new tow-away zones are set to be introduced at tourist hotspots to avoid the chaotic scenes of last summer when thousands descended on Dorset and parked illegally.

Tow-away zones will be introduced at Studland and Lulworth on May 22 and will remain in place until November 1.