With temperatures set to soar this weekend, people across Kent are being reminded to continue practising social distancing as the coronavirus pandemic continues.

The forecast for Sunday is hazy sunshine throughout the day, with temperatures due to reach 17C in some places.

News of the mini warm spell has prompted officials across the county to remind people not to forget why it is important they do not flock to beaches and parks.

The Kent Resilience Forum, which includes Canterbury City Council, Dover District Council, Folkestone and Hythe District Council, Swale Borough Council and Thanet District Council, wants to remind everyone to follow the government advice by staying at home to protect the NHS and save lives.

A spokesman for the five district councils said: "It is ironic that just as we're being asked to stay in for almost the whole day, the sun comes out.

"But as we battle this virus, common sense remains our biggest weapon and most people are using theirs.

"Please don't travel to the coast or country parks to do your exercise and certainly don’t go to public places for picnics or social gatherings - stay close to home, only go out with members of your own household once a day for exercise and please avoid creating a crowd."

Watch chief constable Alan Pughsley telling people to stay home this weekend

At a Kent Police press briefing this morning, chief constable Alan Pughsley warned people not to flout the lockdown measures.

He said: "Don't behave differently because of the hot weather.

"This is not about fun, this is about stopping a virus transmitting and people dying, so why would people not comply with the rules? I find it staggering.

"So if you break them, and we have to, we will enforce."

Train bosses have also spoken out against sun-seekers making their way to the coast on Sunday, and have reminded people their services are current running to serve essential workers.

Aaron Willcox, Margate station manager for Southeastern, said: "Southeastern’s reduced timetable is designed for vital key workers making essential journeys, with only half the usual number of trains.

"We know a trip to the beach might seem tempting as the weather gets warmer, but please follow the government advice and only travel if your journey is absolutely essential."

KCC Director of Public Health, Andrew Scott-Clark, added: "You need to stay two metres (6ft) away from other people – that’s either two very big steps or hold your arm out and then double that distance.

"Exercise is an important way to help your physical and mental health.

"If you can’t keep fit and healthy at home then the government advice is for one trip out of your house each day for a walk or run.

“Stay close to your home and you should not drive unnecessarily or take public transport unless it is absolutely essential."

Thousands of people were meant to be enjoying some of Kent's best attractions for free this weekend, but coronavirus has put an end to it. Instead, take a tour around some of the best museums across the world here.

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