FLINTSHIRE car parks have been closed as people are urged to stay at home over the bank holiday weekend.

Over the Easter bank holiday weekend it is essential that everybody follows the simple but important advice - to avoid non-essential travel and ‘stay at home’.

By following this advice we can ‘help protect the NHS and save lives’.

Areas in Flintshire where the council has had reports of people congregating, including Wepre Park in Connah’s Quay, will be monitored by North Wales Police. The principal roads into and out of the County are also monitored and motorists can be stopped and questioned by the Police.

A spokesman for Flintshire Council said: "A minority do not seem to be following this advice and, with a bank holiday approaching, there remains a risk that some people might attempt to congregate, in groups, in public open spaces."

The following car parks have been closed as we have had reports of people congregating there: Dock Road in Connah’s Quay, Flint Castle, Life Boat Station in Flint, Saltney Ferry Footbridge, Dock Road in Greenfield and Gwaenysgor Viewpoint.

The Lighthouse Car Park, Talacre has also been closed by the proprietor.

Government advice says you can leave home only once-a-day for exercise. That could mean a bicycle ride, walking the dog, or going for a walk or run. Public open spaces and footpaths should be used responsibly and social distancing should be observed at all times. Remember to ‘stay local’.

Rights of Way allow public access to their local countryside. Social distancing rules should be closely observed and people should be considerate of the landowners over whose land paths pass and go alone or with members of your household.

People should also remember to follow hygeine guidance as gates and outdoor structures are touched regularly and do not try new or risky activities.

The council spokesman added: "Follow the Countryside Code - consider farmers and others who are working hard to keep our shop shelves stocked

"Open disregard of these rules will leave the Council with no option but to temporarily close a path."