Sunderland health chief issues Easter safety plea ahead of busy weekend

With Government guidance still in place around minimising travel where possible and avoiding unnecessary trips, the council will have Covid marshals out and about patrolling popular areas over the weekend.

People are also asked to dispose of their rubbish responsibly or to take it home with them if the bins are full after shocking scenes of litter dumped at the seafront and parks this week.

This week has seen up to six people or two households now allowed to meet up outdoors again, with many taking advantage of the sunny weather to catch up.

Gerry Taylor, Sunderland’s Director of Public Health, says it is more important than ever to stick to the rules.

She said: "I know it's great being able to get together in socially distanced small groups, especially in the lovely weather we've had this week, but it's really important that we all keep following the rules.

"Covid is still very much with us and it will be for some time to come so it's more important than ever that we stick to the guidance in place to keep us all safe as we begin to mix more and more things gradually start to open up.

"If you are planning to meet up in someone's garden, plan ahead and take your own drinks with you so that you're not sharing glasses or crockery, and don't be tempted to pop to the bathroom.

"And please remember that the rule of six includes children too, so for instance, it's not ok for six adults plus their children to meet up outside if they are from than two households.

"We are expecting things to be busy over the weekend so it's really a case of being sensible. If you get to somewhere and it looks crowded, think about going back a different day or time when it might be less busy and it’s easier to stay 2 metres apart or go somewhere quieter.

"It’s really important we don’t lose sight of the sacrifices we’ve all made in the last year, and continue to do everything we can collectively, to stop the virus spreading."