POKEMON hunters have been slammed by police officers for "attending public spaces" during a national lockdown.

Essex Police in Rochford say they have had "cause to speak with" a number of men, all aged over 30, after they were spotted "catching Pokemon" across the district.

The team's social media post came attached with guidance from Essex County Council to abide by the rules in lockdown.

However as part of lockdown rules, you are allowed to exercise alone in an outdoor space.

It's unknown if the men seen catching Pokemon on the mobile phone app Pokemon Go, were gathered in groups or by themselves.

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In a now deleted post, the force said: "Whilst patrolling, our community policing team, have had cause to speak with a number of different men, aged 30+ over the last week, who seemed to feel it is acceptable to attend certain public places within the district, to hunt Pokemon.

"Honestly, yes, you did read that correctly.

"If that happens to be someone you know, please remind them of the following information shared by our partners at Rochford District Council."