Scots still can’t resist fun in the sun

SCOTS flocked to beaches and beauty spots yesterday despite social distancing rules in place during the lockdown.

While the vast majority of people adhered to advice and warnings to stay at home to help the NHS save lives, others could not resist the temptation to enjoy the first warm weather we have seen this year.

The milder weather, the result of African winds sweeping across Europe, led to temperatures in the high teens across parts of the country and extended spells of sunshine.

With some areas seeing 18C, it meant Scotland enjoyed better weather than some holiday spots in Europe including Athens and parts of Italy. Cyclists, runners and families with young children took to the outdoors in Edinburgh’s Portobello and Strathclyde Park, while others paddled by the shore of some of Scotland’s best beaches.

Police Scotland have continued to appeal to Scots to stay home, asking that “people follow the social distancing guidelines”.

But it wasn’t only in Scotland that sun-lovers took to parks and beaches. In London, where temperatures hit 21C, thousands travelled to beauty spots for picnics and to meet friends.

The widespread flouting of lockdown rules prompted UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock to warn that we could face a complete ban on outdoor exercise – even the one hour we are allowed. His warning came as the death toll rose in Scotland and the UK.

Hancock said: “We’ve said it’s OK to go for exercise because the physical and mental health benefits are really important. People should not break the rules because that will mean the virus spreads more and we might have to take further action.”