Children and families are being urged to stay away from playgrounds in Torbay to help reduce the spread of Coronavirus.

In line with the latest government guidance which asks people to stay home and help save lives, we have temporarily closed all children’s play areas with immediate effect and is asking people to stay away for the safety of themselves and others.

Councillor Mike Morey, Cabinet Member for Environment, Infrastructure and Culture for Torbay Council, said: “The message is clear - to help prevent the spread of Coronavirus and to save lives, everyone must stay at home and avoid congregating in public areas. If you go to playgrounds and mix with other people at the moment you could be putting yourself or your child in danger as you do not know who is carrying the virus.

“The government is asking people to only make essential journeys, for example, if they are a key worker going to work, or if they need to go food shopping.

“Although exercise is permitted, everyone is to adhere to social distancing meaning that they should keep a safe distance from others, should not be out in groups of more than two, and not to mix with others from outside their household. For those reasons, regrettably, we have had to close play areas during this difficult time.”

For more nformation on Coronavirus visit the coronavirus pages.

Ideas to help entertain your children

This is a difficult time for parents especially those with young children but there is a range of activities available that you can do to keep them entertained at home:

• Scouts: The Great Indoors - fun activities collated by Scouts Association 
• PE with Joe Wicks - Daily live PE session for children and families 
• Paignton Zoo Wild At Home activities - ideas for families from Paignton Zoo 
• BBC Tiny Happy People - Online activities and educational resources for young children