AN URGENT plea has been made to residents, visitors and businesses regarding coronavirus.

In response to the large number of residents and visitors visiting seafront areas on the Yorkshire coast yesterday (Saturday) and hospitality businesses remaining open, Cllr Liz Colling, Deputy Leader of Scarborough Borough Council, said: “I appreciate this is a very difficult time for everyone but we must all take our collective responsibility to protect each other seriously and adhere to the strict Government guidance on social distancing and the closure of bars, restaurants and cafés.

“I was shocked at how busy our seafront areas were yesterday and that many hospitality businesses were open for business, despite the warning given by Government last Friday evening. Please stop and think about the very serious nature of the ongoing situation and how vital it is that we all follow the official guidance. It is not worth putting yourself and those around you at risk.

“I am therefore urging all residents, visitors and businesses to act responsibly and compassionately with immediate effect by following what the Government is asking us to do. It is incumbent on all of us to work together to try to prevent the spread of coronavirus. I hope I can count on everyone’s support to do what is right for our borough and our country at this very challenging time.”