Residents have been urged to respect coronavirus social distancing guidance ahead of a scorching bank holiday weekend.

With temperatures set to soar – peaking at 23°C on Monday – Essex residents have been reminded to "stay safe and alert".

Essex Police chief constable BJ Harrington, said: "Frontline workers across the county have seen in the vast majority of cases that people across this great county have been sticking to all of the restrictions put in place by the government and I thank you all for that.

"I recognise how difficult it is, and my children would love to see their friends and grandparents, but I also know that this increases the risk to my family and your family.

"We have another Bank Holiday this weekend and we must both enjoy ourselves for our physical and mental wellbeing, but we must also remember how valuable our work has been to this point to protect the NHS and save lives."

Epping Forest Guardian:

Essex Resilience Forum, a partner of Essex County Council, says residents must responsibly enjoy the warm weather without flouting lockdown rules to help avoid a second wave of Covid-19.

Forum chair, deputy chief fire officer Rick Hylton, said: "On behalf of Essex Resilience Forum, I’d like to say thank you to all our residents who are continuing to do the right and safe thing, and for following the national guidance.

“I am so proud of how our organisations are responding to this crisis and extremely heartened by the continued support that so many people are giving us by following these rules.

“We recognise that for many, this has been tough, but now, more than ever, it’s important that we stay alert and stay safe."

County council officials anticipate parks will be busy; residents are asked to use their judgment in relation to their visit – considering the time of their visit and the park they choose to visit.

Residents are urged to keep following the guidelines:

  • Keep staying at home wherever possible
  • Keep working from home where you can
  • Keep 2 metres apart if you go out
  • Keep exercising safely
  • Keep washing your hands regularly with soap and water
  • Keep self-isolating if you or anyone in your household has symptoms
  • Keep travelling by car, bike or walking
  • Keep staying safe at work
  • Keep shielding yourself if you're vulnerable
  • Keep supporting local businesses
  • Keep looking out for each other

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