LIFEBOAT crews and coastguards are urging people to stay out of the water this weekend and avoid using the sea for exercise or recreation.

’Under normal circumstances, many people would be heading to the coast this weekend to enjoy the Easter bank holiday.

’Given the current COVID-19 outbreak, we are urging everyone to to follow the clear Government instructions to stay home, protect the NHS and save lives.’

While the lockdown rules permit daily exercise, the RNLI does not recommend that this exercise is on or in the sea.

’Our charity’s lifeboat service is still available but every time a lifeboat crew is called to an incident, it puts additional pressure on RNLI volunteers and other front line emergency services as well as potentially exposing them to COVID-19.’

This message has been reinforced by the Coastguard rescue teams around the Cornish coast, who are asking people to ’keep your beach gear at home this Easter weekend to protect yourself, your family and your community from #Covid19.’

’We know it’s tempting. We love the coast too,’ said HM Coastguard.

’But please, this weekend, stretch your legs locally, don’t stretch our resources and don’t travel to the coast. It’s not a holiday, it’s a national emergency.’