The Easter weekend is a normally a time when we are all thinking about getting outside, enjoying the spring weather, and meeting up with friends and family. But this year, as we head into the Easter weekend, a reminder that the Government’s advice is to stay home.

We love our parks and greenspaces but at this time we must all limit the time we spend in them and use them only for walking, running, cycling or other exercise, so sadly that means no sunbathing, picnics, Easter egg hunts or gatherings.

Parks currently remain open but only for individuals and households to exercise once a day and communal spaces within parks such as playgrounds and football pitches are closed. It’s vitally important that we all follow the social distancing guidance when we are outside and that means keeping at least 2 metres (6 feet) away from people who are not part of your household.

We join with local councils in stressing the vital importance of using local parks and greenspaces close to your home only for exercising. Please avoid driving to parks and carry any litter or dog poo bags home with you.

More than ever, our parks and greenspaces are a lifeline for our wellbeing, but how we use them must change for now. Please keep yourself, your family and your community safe – and keep your distance.

Enjoy the Easter weekend and treasure those greenspace moments and memories.

UPDATE: Scottish Government has published a Statement by Scottish Ministers on what exercising rights of access responsibly under the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and Scottish Outdoor Access Code means during the COVID-19 emergency