PERMITTED exercise during this lockdown should only be done locally and National Park chiefs are urging people not to flock to the Dales.

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is urging everyone not to make unnecessary trips to the National Park.

National Park offices in Bainbridge and Grassington are closed. along with all its Visitor Centres and the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes.

National Park car parks, toilets and public rights of way remain open for local people to take exercise, and shop for essentials.

Where footpaths pass close to, or through residential and agricultural properties, Government advice regarding social distancing should be strictly adhered to.

Neil Heseltine, Chair of the Authority said: “The message is clear, stay home, exercise locally, and avoid all unnecessary travel."

Mr Heseltine said many Dales residents fall into the most vulnerable category of people, meaning it is especially important that visitors do not put them at risk.

He added that people should not be travelling into the park for picnics and recreation whilst the restrictions remain in place.

“Finally, the Yorkshire Dales will be here for us all when this is over," said Mr Heseltine.

"It isn’t going anywhere, and neither should you.

"Please stay home and plan for when local businesses across the Park will be back up and running and delighted to welcome you back”.