Scots warned not to gather at beauty spots over Easter break

Police chiefs are urging people to stick to Covid restrictions while meeting up at beauty spots after officers were forced to break up crowds earlier this week.

Police in Edinburgh were called to disperse illegal gatherings at the Meadows on Tuesday, as hundreds showed up to enjoy the warmer weather.

Scotland’s ‘stay at home’ order changes to ‘stay local’ on Friday, however authorities are warning people to continue avoiding crowded places.

Chief superintendent Sean Scott is also urging people not to travel outwith their local area over the Easter weekend.

Huge crowds gathered at the Meadows in Edinburgh. SWNS via SWNS

He said: “The coronavirus regulations have had a significant impact on our lives and I would like to thank the vast majority of people who are sticking to the rules and doing the right thing to avoid the spread of the virus as we move through the easing of restrictions.

“People should not travel outwith their local authority area except for essential purposes.

“While Easter weekend is traditionally a time for visiting friends and family, I would urge people to stay local and follow the regulations on gatherings.

“If you are visiting beauty spots within your local area, do so safely and respectfully – leaving no trace of your visit.

“Please also park responsibly to allow emergency access.

“Our approach throughout the pandemic has been to engage with the public, explain the legislation and encourage compliance, but we will not hesitate to use our enforcement powers as a last resort.”

East Lothian Council also warned tourists to stay out of the region over bank holiday weekend as the local authority works with police to crack down on rogue travellers.

The area saw record numbers of visitors when lockdown was eased last summer as people headed to the coast and seaside towns.

Portobello Beach was also popular last summer with people regularly flocking there during the good weather.