Concerns raised over number of people visiting Southsea seafront during lockdown

The strict national measures were announced on Monday and have resulted in the closure of schools as well as non-essential businesses.

Under the lockdown, the third to have been ordered by Prime Minister Boris Johnson since March last year, people have been told to stay at home.

However you are allowed outside for exercising, which includes running, cycling, walking, and swimming.

The government advice says that you should only be leaving home to exercise once a day and ‘you should not travel outside your local area’ but does not specify what the limit on travelling is, leaving a grey area.

Southsea residents have now contacted The News to raise concern about the crowds of people flocking to the seafront this weekend.

One person said: ‘Yesterday (Saturday) was insane every car park was full and nowhere any space for parking!

‘Every coffee shop or take away stop was packed with people and my daily walk along the seafront was impossible as had to constantly divert from people.

‘I live at the seafront and so I never take the car for going for a walk as the message is very clear. Stay at home!

SEE ALSO: Hampshire Police hand out more than 560 fines for Covid-19 law breaches

‘People need to play their part and stop being selfish. I wish I had variation too but every day I have to do the same thing.’

It is also against the law to meet socially with family or friends unless they are part of your household or support bubble.

On the government website it says: ‘You cannot leave home for recreational or leisure purposes (such as for a picnic or a social meeting).’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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