Paignton police patrolling play parks

They've had reports of adults breaking in and letting their children play

Police are patrolling play parks in Devon after reports of parents breaking in so their children can use the equipment.

Police at Paignton issued a warning that all play areas are closed as part of the coronavirus measures.

They said in a social media post: “We have been conducting patrols and had to move a number of children and adults off play equipment.

“In line with the Prime Minster’s announcements, to slow the spread of Covid19 and to reduce the burden on the NHS, all play parks across the whole country are now closed.

“We have already had reports of adults breaking into our parks and letting their children play on the equipment. 

“Closure of play parks is to save lives. The cleanliness of parks cannot be guaranteed. Please do not use play equipment in public parks until further notice from Torbay Council.”

One comment on the weekend post on the Paignton Police Facebook page said: “What people need to understand is the longer we keep up this kind of behaviour, the longer we will be in lock down. The whole reason this is being done is so we can recover faster and less people will die!”

The Government has closed all communal places within parks as part of the restrictions.

It says: “You can still go to the park for outdoor exercise once a day but only alone or with members of your household, not in groups.

“Communal places within parks such as sports courts, playgrounds and outdoor gyms have been closed to protect everyone’s health.

“We ask that households use parks responsibly and keep 2 metres apart from others at all times.

“Unless you are with members of your household, gatherings of more than two people in parks and other public spaces have been banned.

“The police have the powers to disperse gatherings and issue fines if necessary.”

Torbay Council said: “All playgrounds within the area should be considered closed and should not be visited, this is in accordance with government direction.”