COUNCIL chiefs have hit out at people who are ignoring the measures introduced to combat the spread of coronavirus.

Play areas, playgrounds and multi-use games areas across the district are currently closed due to the pandemic.

But some people are ignoring the signs and tape put in place and are using the equipment.

And there have been reports of people congregating in parks – and even driving to beauty spots and green spaces for picnics and to meet-up with friends.

Only yesterday, Keighley firefighters were called out to tackle a blaze in Elam Wood Road, Riddlesden, caused by a disposable barbecue.

Bradford Council says the message is clear – avoid all unnecessary journeys and stay at home.

It adds that parks should only be used for the sole purpose of daily exercise and not to meet friends, use equipment or play sports.

People who live in the same house may go out together but should keep their distance from others. Groups of more than two people from different households meeting up are not allowed.

Councillor Sarah Ferriby, Bradford Council’s executive member for healthy people and places, said: “I cannot stress this strongly enough – this is a national emergency and not a national holiday. Now is not the time to go to the park to meet up with your mates. This is the time to avoid all non-essential travel, keep contact to a minimum and stay at home.

“People need to get real and treat this seriously – workplaces and education settings are not closed to give people the opportunity to meet with their friends and stroll in the park.

“Anyone you come into contact with could have coronavirus, any surface you touch could have coronavirus, so meeting up with people and using the play equipment in parks is extremely irresponsible.

“People who are doing this are not only risking their health, but the health of everyone they come in to contact with, including members of their family – especially elderly grandparents, great grandparents and people who are already not well. Gates are locked, signs are up and areas are taped off for a reason.

“Youth workers have also been giving clear messages that young people should stay at home and act responsibly to help keep them and their loved ones safe. This doesn’t mean all hang out at one person’s house. It means go to your own home and stay there.

“There are loads of great ways that people can use technology to keep in touch and people should use these.”

People are being encouraged to subscribe to email alerts from Bradford Council at bradford.gov.uk/stayconnected and follow the council on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.