A TOP human rights lawyer has apologised after she broke Covid-19 rules to travel from London to her second home in Meirionnydd.

Rebecca Hilsenrath, who is the head of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, travelled to Llanegryn from Hertfordshire over the festive period before being asked to leave by police.

Mrs Hilsenrath is said to have been spoken to by police following complaints from the local community. She then agreed to return to England on Christmas Day.

She said today that her family "did not realise that lockdown necessitated or even permitted" their departure.

In a statement posted on Twitter, she said: “I would like to apologise to the local community, where we feel deeply embedded, if I have caused anyone concern or worry at this difficult time.

“I travelled to our home in Wales before lockdown in the belief it was allowed under the rules at that time. As the situation changed and lockdown was imposed, our family did not join us.”

Mrs Hilsenrath added: “We did not realise that lockdown necessitated or even permitted our departure, and after a short and helpful conversation with local police we agreed at once to leave on Christmas Day and did so without the need for further reminders.”

Baroness Kishwer Falkner, chair of the Equality and Human Rights Commission, said: “I have been made aware that Rebecca travelled from her home in Hertfordshire to her second home in Wales. She has apologised for this error of judgement. I will establish all the facts before deciding if any further action is required.”