POLICE are asking people to use their ‘common sense’ and not use play park equipment around Tavistock that are currently closed to reduce the spread of coronavirus.

The plea has been made following reports by Tavistock Town Council that play equipment was being used by a minority of people.

Tavistock Town Council’s playgrounds were closed in March until further notice as they are ‘high-touch’ areas.

Members of the council’s works department have been keeping local parks and open spaces, including The Meadows, and Whitchurch Down, as ‘pleasant havens’ for everyone to enjoy, whilst social distancing.

The Government has ruled that play park areas must remain closed until further notice, with signage advising people not to use the play equipment. Parents and guardians are asked to make sure their children abide by the guidance.

West Devon police inspector Mark Sloman said: ‘It is really disappointing that a small number of parents have failed to follow safe practice and put their children, and other people, at risk by ignoring the signage not to use play equipment. Our officers will continue to patrol the Meadows and other play parks around the town in an effort to ensure the equipment is not used.

‘We all hope that in the near future these facilities, including the town’s skate park, will be opened up again for everyone to enjoy — but in the meantime can I ask that people use their common sense and stay off the equipment. We all need to remember that the restrictions are still in place.’