Swadlincote Police have warned youths not to gather in groups in local parks while lockdown rules are in place.

The town's Safer Neighbourhood Team are concerned at reports from Newhall Park and the Woodhouse Street skate park.

Police say this is not allowed under the current Covid guidelines.

A post on the SNT's Facebook page reads: "We have had several reports of youths gathering at Newhall Park and the skate park on Woodhouse Street. Skateboard England have announced this week that all outdoor skateparks are to be closed during the lockdown period.

"The council have been putting up signage on the equipment - please adhere to these rules.

"Gathering in groups is not allowed under the current guidelines. Guidelines state that you may only meet up with one other person for exercise.

"Exercise does not involve sitting on a bench and just chatting; you must be talking a walk or be involved in other exercise and be observing social distancing. We understand that lockdown is frustrating and upsetting for many people and we understand that people (and especially our younger members of society) want to see their friends.

"However, we are asking all parents to please speak with their children about the potential dangers of meeting up with their friends and to re-iterate the guidelines.

"We all need to do our part to beat this virus and by following the guidelines, we can get this lockdown lifted as soon as possible. We will be carrying out regular patrols of this parks and the others in the area."