Three Rivers District Council has closed the car park of Rickmansworth Aquadrome after people flouted rules to prevent the spread of coronavirus.

With sunny spring weather and temperatures reaching 15C, many ignored government rules ordering people only to go out for essential exercise, gathering at the Harefield Road attraction with friends and having picnics.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson last week told people only to go outside for shopping, medical supplies and for exercise.

It was later clarified that people should not drive elsewhere to exercise, but walk from their homes.

The Government had last night urged people not to risk further pressure on the NHS by going out to parks in large numbers this weekend.

But Watford Borough Council today had to close the car park of Cassiobury Park as 'thousands' converged there.

Read more: Cassiobury Park car park closed for weekend

Three Rivers District Council leader Cllr Sara Bedford said: “This decision has been taken in consultation with the local police.

"Unfortunately people are not respecting the Government guidelines on social distancing and are gathering with friends or having picnics.

"It is clear that the area should only be used by people taking their daily exercise in the local area.

“I ask residents to stay in or stay local to save lives and help take some pressure off our hardworking NHS staff.”