New Forest car parks are to be shut from today after too many visitors headed to the area at the weekend. 

Tens of thousands of people took advantage of bright sunshine to enjoy the great outdoors.

But park bosses are concerned that thousands of people gathering at beauty spots could compromise the fight against coronavirus.

A spokesman for Forestry England, the custodians of the Crown lands of the New Forest, said: "The most important thing for Forestry England is to keep the public, our staff and volunteers safe. 

"We will close all recreation facilities in the woods and forests we manage. 

"Please carefully reconsider any plans you had to travel.  We will keep monitoring the situation closely and follow the latest advice from Public Health England."

Forestry England also confirmed they are keeping forests across the UK open and as productive as possible to sustain livelihoods and support the UK timber industry.

But they issued advice on how to safely enjoy a walk while staying two metres away from others and exercises to enjoy at home. 

Forestry England manages sites including Blackwater, New Forest Reptile Centre, Bolderwood, Knightwood Oak, Anderwood, Wihtefield Moor, Wilverley, Hatchet Pond, New Park, Bolton's Bench, Verderers’ Hall and all other New Forest car parks.