SAFETY will come first in all plans for recovery in Hampshire, it has been revealed.

That’s the message from Hampshire County Council’s countryside service, as they prepare for an update from the Government on Sunday and consider plans for the county’s country parks.

Executive Member for Recreation and Heritage, Councillor Seán Woodward, said: “The car parks at Hampshire County Council’s country parks remain closed until further notice.

"They will only open when we are confident this can be done in a way that ensures the safety of staff and visitors.

“We await Government announcements on Sunday, and any subsequent guidance that will help us to plan a safe recovery from the current closure. We hope that we will soon be able to open some of the facilities that are currently closed.

“This bank holiday weekend, many people will want to take their permitted exercise in Hampshire’s green spaces and rights of way.

"I would like to urge everyone to remember that, when doing this, you must stay close to home and be very careful to keep two metres apart from others.

"If some of the paths you normally use are narrow and you think it might be difficult to keep your distance, do the right thing, and avoid those areas.

"I understand that this is frustrating when we are enjoying good weather, but if we all keep going, we can get back to what, or who, we love, sooner.”

Government guidance asks that we stay at home to save lives.

This means:

• Only going outside for food or health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home)

• If you go out, staying two metres (6 feet) away from other people at all times

• Washing your hands as soon as you get home

• Not meeting others, even family or friends