Coronavirus: Dalek patrols streets ordering humans to 'self-isolate'

A Dalek has been spotted patrolling the streets of a small village and ordering "all humans to self-isolate".

In a video captured by amused residents, the Doctor Who villain passes through the deserted street while ordering people to comply with "the order of the Daleks".

It is the latest creative response to the "stay at home" order, after a Derbyshire policewoman created a rap video asking the public to: "Take our advice and you may not get sick. Stay at home whenever you can. Don't go out on the streets with your fam."

The rap was criticised for being inaccurate, but a police spokesperson said the officer had taken some "artistic licence" and was simply a "light-hearted attempt to deliver the advice".

People across the UK have been urged by the government to stay at home and only leave the house for essential needs to help stop the spread of the coronavirus pandemic.

Some thought the Dalek's appearance was some light relief, with one Twitter user writing: "Wildlife is finally returning to Britain's streets. Nature is healing."

"SELF-ISOLATE!! SELF-ISOLATE!!! SELF-ISOLATE!!!!" another wrote.

But others found the clip, taken in Robin Hood's Bay near Whitby in Yorkshire, terrifying.

One social media user wrote: "Am I the only one to feel a genuine shiver of fear watching this? As a child I would most certainly have been hiding behind the sofa.

"And if a Cyberman came marching down the road, that would be it, I'd be running for my life!"

Another person added: "I'm not going to argue with a Dalek."

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Tayside Police in Scotland used the viral video to remind its Twitter followers to stay inside during the coronavirus pandemic - and appeared to have some impressive Doctor Who knowledge.

"Our colleagues in Skaro Division have deployed their Direct Action Local Enforcement Kops to ensure everyone is following guidelines about isolation and social distancing," the force wrote.

"We recommend everyone uses their Totally Awesome Rightly Distanced Isolation Systems to comply."

The Daleks were created by sci-fi writer Terry Nation, first appearing in the popular television series in 1963.

Their usual catchphrase is "Exterminate!" - but, for now, they're asking people to "self-isolate".