Around 50 rule-breaking campers moved on from beauty spot

Police in Dumfries and Galloway moved on around 50 lockdown flouters who were hoping to camp at a popular beauty spot despite coronavirus regulations.

Campers from outwith the region flocked to Mennock Pass on Saturday in breach of the Scottish Government’s ‘stay local’ guidance.

Officers sent dozens packing from the area and urged those heading out to abide by the current Covid-19 rules.

On Sunday, a force spokesperson said: “Whilst out on patrol yesterday in the Mennock Pass our officers found a large number of people who had travelled from outwith our region.

“Approximately 50 people who had intended camping for the weekend were reminded of the current guidelines prior to them leaving the area.

“Our officers will continue to visit local beauty spots to encourage people to stay safe.”

The Scottish Government’s ‘stay at home’ order was lifted on Friday and replaced with guidance to ‘stay local’, which urges people to remain within their local authority area.

Further easing will take place on Monday, with garden centres, homeware stores and click and collect services allowed to reopen, along with barbers and hairdressers.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon described the lifting of the ‘stay at home’ rule the “first big step out of lockdown”.

She added: “Please stay cautious though – Covid is still with us.

“And until April 26, please stay local – within your own council area, except for essential reasons.”