RESIDENTS across Wales are being urged to follow the Covid rules and regulations over the Easter weekend.

As lockdown continues to ease and families are eager to meet their loved ones once again, people are being warned that coronavirus has not gone away.

Earlier this week, North Wales was basked in sunshine with temperatures reaching as high as 21C. This saw people flock to beauty spots to enjoy the 'spring heatwave'.

Wepre Park in Connah's Quay saw its main car park closed early in the afternoon on Tuesday and was operating on a one in one out system.

However, despite temperatures cooling off and with snow expected this weekend, residents are still being reminded to follow the guidance around keeping safe.

Flintshire Council's Andrew Farrow, Chief Officer, Planning, Environment and Economy said; “There has been ongoing and comprehensive messaging across Wales and the UK for many months highlighting the requirements of the coronavirus regulations that we all need to be aware of and follow, including social distancing and hygiene.

“Since 27 March people resident in Wales have been allowed to travel within the Welsh border and are able to visit popular beauty spots such as Wepre Park and other attractions whilst observing the current regulations. Our Countryside Services team will be managing the car park at Wepre Park and would request that visitors behave responsibly with consideration for others and residents living locally to the park, whilst enjoying their visit.

“There is a public car park at the former Somerfield supermarket close to the junction of Wepre Drive and Connah’s Quay High Street, an easy and safe 15 minute walk to Wepre Park which visitors can use should the Park’s car park be full, instead of parking in the immediate area.”

Denbighshire County Council and the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB have put plans in place to ensure countryside sites remain safe as travel restrictions ease.

The Welsh Government removed the stay local guidance from Saturday, March 27 and work has taken place at sites across Denbighshire, including Moel Famau and Loggerheads country parks, to ensure measures are in place to keep visitors safe.

These include improvements to the car parks at Moel Famau and the upgrading of paths at Loggerheads and works at Horseshoe Falls to improve access.

Huw Rees, Denbighshire County Council’s Countryside and Heritage Services Manager, said: “We know it has been a difficult period for residents not being able to enjoy the countryside here in Denbighshire and I would like to thank all those who have been following the exercise from home rules.

“The Council and Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB have been preparing for the change in restrictions. However, it is vital visitors play their part when returning to our countryside sites.

“It is important visitors know what restrictions and guidelines are in place before travelling and to keep themselves and others safe they should avoid busy times, check ahead to see if facilities are open and where possible access quieter sites and walks during the initial period of re-opening. This will help avoid busy periods and parking issues.

“It is also important visitors respect the countryside and act responsibly during their visit and this means keeping dogs on leads and not to litter.

“We would like to reassure residents we will continue to work with North Wales Police and with partners to spread the message that cross-border travel is still restricted.”

A list of alternative walks in the county can be found at www.clwydianrangeanddeevalleyaonb.org.uk/projects/community-miles/