Children are no longer allowed on playground equipment in East Ayrshire because of coronavirus dangers.

The council said there is a risk Covid-19 could spread because the virus lurks on swings, slides and other surfaces.

Play parks are still open, however, for kids who live nearby to run around the open space.

Depute council leader Elena Whitham said: “There are 80 playparks across East Ayrshire. Keeping kids off the play equipment is really important.”

She added: “This isn’t easy, I know – especially if your hour of daily exercise means walking by a play park with wee ones.

“But it is so very important to keep their wee hands away from the surfaces of play equipment where Covid-19 may be lurking.”

The Irvine Valley councillor said the local authority is looking at putting up signs to warn families off. 

An East Ayrshire Council statement said: “Sadly, we’ve had to close access to playground equipment for the time being because contaminated surfaces and equipment risk passing Covid-19 from one person to another.

“If you live close to a play park, you can still use the open space but please do not allow young ones to play on the equipment.

“Please also observe social distancing as guided by government. This means keeping a two metre distance between you and anyone who does not currently live in your household.”

The council said: “East Ayrshire enjoys a beautiful landscape, and facilities, including our lochs and hills, long distance paths, cycle tracks and country parks, are there to help residents and visitors enjoy these benefits.

“However, during this unprecedented time, these facilities are essentially ‘out of bounds’ to anyone who does not live within short walking distance.

“Please do not travel to these locations. Once the current restrictions are lifted we will welcome you back with open arms, but at the moment we ask that you comply with the national guidance and stay at home.”

People are invited to check out the  Must See Ayrshire account on Instagram to look at pictures of the area until the countryside is accessible again.

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