HEALTH officials have re-issued their plea calling for people to stay away from the Lake District this weekend.

Last weekend police told tourists 'the Lake District is closed' after visitors had been seen in parts of the Lakes.

Colin Cox, Director of Public Health, said: “I understand that some people might be getting frustrated but I cannot stress strongly enough that people should do the right thing and really limit their movement and contact with other people.

"There are some encouraging early signs that social distancing is having the effect we want, and that the spread of the virus may be slowing down.

"It’s not easy, but it’s a small sacrifice when set against the chance of spreading infection and people becoming seriously ill.

“This is about people acting responsibly and working together to protect their communities.”

Richard Leaf, Chief Executive Officer of the Lake District National Park Authority, said: “The residents of the Lake District need the Great British Public to respect Government advice. Please do not travel to the National Park.

"An influx of day trippers coming into the park will inevitably mean people coming into close contact and we really should be avoiding that.

"Enjoy your weekends at home, the Lake District will be here for you when this is all over.”