Anyone for tennis, golf or a walk on the beach? Britain finally off the leash

FRIENDS and family members flocked to parks yesterday to see each other for the first time since lockdown began more than 50 days ago.

- Michael Knowles

Walkers take the path to Durdle Door in Lulworth Cove on the Dorset Coast yesterday

The slight relaxation of the rules now allows people to meet one person from not within their household – as long as it is outdoors.

And many took the opportunity to end weeks of isolation to see loved ones and friends.

People also began fishing, playing golf, tennis and walking in beauty spots and national parks together as restrictions on how far people can travel were lifted.

Walkers were out – but not in force – in the Lake District after tourism chiefs urged day-trippers to stay away from the area which has seen a relatively high number of Covid-19 cases.

A one-way system is put in place from Durdle Door car park

And the chalk path down to Lulworth Cove on the Dorset coast saw footfall again after Durdle Door car park reopened while long traffic queues were seen at beauty spots on the Souths Downs in Sussex.

But people were warned to keep their distance from others and avoid hotspots or busy areas.

Mayor of Brighton Alex Phillips urged tourists not to travel to the popular seaside resort this weekend as it “would not be safe”. Police chiefs called for people to show personal responsibility as they return to public spaces. And park rangers and security guards will step in if people fail to keep two metres apart or begin gathering in large groups.

Parks in London could even be closed if visitors do not maintain social distancing rules.

Not safe...Brighton mayor Alex Phillips