PARENTS have been urged to take extra care to ensure the safety of children as play areas across Darlington are set to reopen this weekend.

Darlington Borough Council has confirmed that, in line with national guidance on easing of lockdown restrictions, children will once again be able to enjoy local play areas.

However, parents will need to follow social distancing guidelines.

Cllr Andy Keir, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for local services, said: "As lockdown eases more places are reopening, but that does not mean the virus has gone away. We must continue take any and all necessary precautions to keep ourselves and our children safe.

"It is good news that we are able to reopen our play areas to children, but it must be emphasised that it’s up to parents to follow the advice and do what is necessary to protect their children and others.”

Measures include: remaining 2m apart from others or 1m with face coverings, hand sanitising before and after using equipment and only one family member per child.