A TRUST has reminded visitors that its car parks remain closed amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Malvern Hills Trust made the decision, following Government guidelines, to close all their car parks at midnight on Friday, March 27, preventing “the public congregating at tourist hotspots.”

However, we reported at the beginning of the month that the police team in Malvern handed out leaflets, on a Sunday, to drivers who decided to ignore the closure and visit the hills, as a 'shot across the bows'.

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Officers said visitors were from Worcester, Evesham, Solihull and Leamington Spa.

Now, at least one car park has a barrier, preventing on-going vehicular access.

A spokesman for the trust said: “ We’re asking people to stay home, stay safe and to not travel unnecessarily.

“The Malvern Hills will still be here to visit later, when it is safe to do so.

“West Mercia Police are working closely with the trust to provide information to visitors on essential travel and how staying safe during this difficult time.”

In a tweet, police in Malvern said: "It's not ok to meet up in your cars on Castlemorton, or go out for a drive because 'you want to'."

The tweet added that police and members of staff from the trust regularly patrol the area.

Police can deal with people breaking the rules by instructing them to go home, leave an area or disperse or even arrest if you do not follow their instructions or where they deem it necessary.

Fines of £60 or £160 for second offenders can be issued.

Those who do not pay fines can be taken to court, where magistrates can impose unlimited fines.

The Government has told every citizen must stay home except to get exercise, shop for food or medicines, seek medical attention or go to work if it is essential.