We would like to say a big thank-you to all our residents who have helped protect the NHS and save lives by staying at home over the Easter weekend.

However, although most have followed government rules, a small minority are still ignoring the ‘stay at home’ message and gathering in open spaces, and some are driving to local landmarks to exercise or walk their dogs, with up to 10 parked cars seen at the Pilgrim Memorial over the weekend.

Leader of the Council, Cllr Paul Skinner said: “Infections and deaths are still going up, and it’s clear now that the virus can, and does, kill people of all ages and backgrounds.

“People who refuse to stay close to home are putting themselves and others at risk and showing a complete disregard for the NHS. Nobody is enjoying this lockdown, but the longer people continue to break the rules, the longer these restrictions will last and the more lives will be lost.

“The message is clear: stay at home, exercise close to where you live and only go out for essential shopping or medicines, to take vital supplies to vulnerable people or to go to work, and then only if you can’t work from home.

“Please don’t visit memorials and public open spaces if you need to drive to get there.”