Essex County Council's leader has issued a stark warning to lockdown flouters ahead of the Easter Bank Holiday Weekend - 'you are risking your life and others.'
With temperatures set to soar above 20°C this weekend, council officials are wary people will flout the government lockdown instructions to 'sunbathe in the park'.
Cllr David Finch called for residents to pull together for the NHS and key workers on the frontlines and not travel unnecessarily for leisure purposes.
He said: "The last few weeks have been challenging for everyone. Whether you are a key worker, or staying at home juggling work, childcare and home-schooling, I want to thank every single person who is complying with the current restrictions and social distancing guidelines. You really are helping to protect our NHS and save lives.
"Inevitably there have been some who think that these rules do not apply to them. I have a stark message for you if you are in this minority. Coronavirus is a killer. By ignoring the restrictions, you risk your own life and those of others.
"I understand that the current curbs on normal life are hard for many. Not being able to see family members and friends is especially challenging, even more so during religious holidays and celebrations and while the sun is shining."
Across Essex there have been over 1,000 confirmed coronavirus infections – one of the highest numbers for any local authority in the country (Essex also has one of the largest populations).
Cllr Finch added: "Whilst we want you to enjoy this long weekend, I want to ask residents - please - to continue to follow the government’s guidance.
"Please do not meet with friends and family. Please do not travel unnecessarily to beaches, beauty spots or country parks. Not following this guidance, even for a day, could have serious implications and lead to much stricter restrictions being put in place.
"As well as Easter, in the coming days and weeks there are also a number of other religious holidays taking place. Today (Thursday 9 April), for instance, is the Jewish holiday of Passover. I would ask all our friends in the Jewish community to follow the social distancing advice and guidance from faith leaders, which means staying at home and not going on outings.
"I would like to thank the people of Essex for persevering through this difficult time. I wish you all a peaceful and happy Easter weekend."
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