LOCAL MSP URGES PEOPLE TO ‘STAY LOCAL’ WHEN EXERCISING

Published date : 08 Apr 2020

Mid Fife and Glenrothes MSP, Jenny Gilruth, has urged constituents in Fife to ‘stay local’ when exercising and walking dogs, and avoid any unnecessary travel that could help spread coronavirus.

Official advice from the Scottish and UK governments warns that people in Fife should not be driving somewhere with the intent of doing exercise or walking their dog – with new powers granted to police to enforce these regulations.

To protect yourself and others from illness and save lives, people in Fife should also avoid driving to beauty spots such as Leven Beach or the Lomond Hills.

Commenting, the MSP said:

“Exercise is extremely important for people’s physical and mental wellbeing, particularly during what are anxious times for many so it’s important to note that people in Fife can leave their homes for exercise once a day. This can be done either alone or with members of their own household.

“However, you should only be outside for a reasonable purpose such as buying food or essential household or medical supplies; travelling to or carrying out essential work; exercising once a day; or providing care or assistance to others.

“People in Fife should make use of gardens – if they can – and stay local when exercising or walking dogs, to help stop the spread of coronavirus.

“This is about saving lives and protecting our NHS. We all recognise how unusual these regulations are, and the Scottish Government will act to remove these restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.”

ENDS

Notes:

Please use the following guidance in order to stay safe:

stay local and use open spaces near to your home where possible

do not travel unnecessarily

you should only go outside alone or with members of your own household

keep at least 2 metres apart from anyone outside your household at all times

gatherings of more than two in parks or other public spaces have been banned and the police will enforce this

if you have a garden, make use of the space for exercise and fresh air

take hygiene precautions when you are outside, and wash your hands as soon as you are back indoors

Local Reporters