Stick to the rules, urges Tom

Buddies are being urged to “stay local”when taking vital exercise during Covid-19 restrictions.

Tom Arthur MSP, SNP politician for Renfrewshire South, is advising constituents to bear in mind health advice when out walking the dog or taking a daily stroll in the fresh air.

He is reminding folk to avoid any unnecessary travel that could help spread coronavirus.

Mr Arthur, pictured, said: “Of course, exercise is extremely important for people’s physical and mental wellbeing, so it’s important to note that people in Renfrewshire South can leave their homes for exercise once a day, with members of their own household.

“However, you should only be outside for a reasonable purpose – buying food or essential household or medical supplies; travelling to or carrying out essential work; exercising once a day; or providing care or assistance to others.

“People in Renfrewshire South should make use of their gardens - if they can - and stay local when exercising or walking dogs, to ensure that we stop the spread of coronavirus.“

Official advice from the Scottish and UK governments warns that people should not be driving somewhere with the intent of doing exercise or walking their dog – with new powers granted to police to enforce these regulations.

To protect yourself and others from illness and save lives, people in Renfrewshire should also avoid driving to beauty spots such as Castle Semple and Glennifer Braes.

Safety measures include using open spaces near to your home where possible, don’t travel unnecessarily, only go outside alone or with members of your own household, keep at least two metres apart from anyone outside your household, and remember that gatherings of more than two in parks or other public spaces have been banned and the police will enforce this.

Also take hygiene precautions when you are outside, and wash your hands as soon as you are back indoors.