SEAFRONT car parks have been shut after visitors from as far away as Sunderland were caught on trips to the coast.

The car park on Majuba Road, in Redcar, the coast road car park between Redcar and Marske and the Pier and Cat Nab car parks, in Saltburn have been closed after a request from police.

Cllr Wayne Davies, cabinet member for economic development, said Cleveland Police had passed on the message about people – and some from outside the area – gathering at the borough’s coastal resorts.

He added: “We have taken the decision to close these car parks in support of the Government’s social distancing instructions to keep people safe.

“We know that being indoors for long periods of time can be difficult – but it is absolutely vital that we do all we can to protect each other and to do our best to stop the virus spreading.

“I would personally like to thank our frontline staff, and those striving to ensure vital services remain robust in these difficult and testing times.”

Measures to prevent the spread of coronavirus have been tightened up this week – with public gatherings of more than two people outlawed and people urged to stay at home.

Government instructions say people should only leave home to exercise once a day, travel to and from essential work, shop for essential items or fulfil any medical or care needs.

Chief Inspector Jonathan Grainge confirmed Cleveland Police had worked alongside the authority to shut the car parks.

He added: “Unfortunately, we are still seeing people travelling from outside the area to visit the beach, and other beauty spots, and then congregating in groups.

“This is contravening government advice and putting our communities and colleagues at risk.

“I strongly advise people to adhere to the advice and protect our NHS.”

Redcar and Cleveland Council followed other Teesside authorities in suspending charges in all its pay and display car parks on Wednesday to offer better access for key workers.

Borough MPs condemned thieves earlier this week after public toilets were forced closed following thefts of toilet rolls and soap dispensers.

New laws were due to be passed on Thursday to enable council officials and police to impose £30 fines for those flouting the rules – with criminal proceedings possible if fines aren’t paid

People are only permitted to leave their property for: Shopping for basic necessities, one form of exercise a day, medical need, to care for a vulnerable person, travelling to work only where absolutely necessary.