Taking a form of exercise every day can have health benefits, both mentally and physically.
We are lucky in Dorset to have a network of almost 3,000 miles of footpaths, bridleways and byways that offers people the chance to stretch their legs, connect with nature and destress.
Cllr Ray Bryan, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said:
“We are emphasising the Government’s guidelines about using open spaces local to you. All our country park car parks are closed to stop excessive travel and gatherings at popular sites. Play areas (with equipment) are closed to manage infection and control gatherings.
“The message is stay home, only go out for exercise, food, medical reasons or for work where you are not able to work from home – but always keep two metres apart.”
Dorset Council are reminding people of the national guidelines during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic to help the NHS and save lives:
• Stay local and use open spaces near to your home where possible – do not travel unnecessarily.
• You should only go outside alone or with members of your own household
• Keep at least 2 metres apart from anyone outside your household at all times.
• Gatherings of more than two in parks or other public spaces have been banned and the police will enforce this.
• If you have a garden, make use of the space for exercise and fresh air
• Take hygiene precautions when you are outside and wash your hands as soon as you are back indoors.
If you are walking your dog as part of your daily exercise you must:
• Keep your dog on a lead around farm animals – any dog is capable of chasing and injuring livestock.
• Bag your dog’s poo and dispose of it in a nearby bin or your household bin- Dog faeces can carry germs that cause abortion in farm animals.
• Stay on designated paths especially heathlands, wetlands & downs – some birds may be nesting low or on the ground.
Information about being a responsible Dog owner.
Information about what you can and can’t do during this pandemic.
It seems strange that in London, the parks are open, where as in Dorset it is chosen to close such facilities. Is this a sign of a divided nation beginning to emerge?
Hi Tony – our visitor centres and car parks for the country parks and beauty spots are closed to prevent gatherings but almost 3,000 miles of rights of way are still open, some of which lead into the country parks. Living in a rural county we are lucky to have easy access to countryside where as in cities the parks are the only place to experience nature.