VISIT Brighton has changed its name in a bid to curb the spread of coronavirus.

The tourism guide, which normally aims to attract visitors to the city, is now called Do Not Visit Brighton to warn travellers they are no longer welcome amid the Coivd-19 pandemic.

The initiative said “We have picked up on some rumours that people still intend to visit Brighton this weekend.

“We love welcoming visitors, it's what we're about, but in these unprecedented times we would ask that you please don't travel to the city.

“The safety of everyone is paramount and we are wholeheartedly supporting and implementing the government guidelines around unnecessary travel and social distancing. Stay at home. Save lives.”

Following the latest government rulings people must stay at home and only leave the house for essential shopping or one form of exercise a day.

People are also allowed out to pick up medications or help the vulnerable.  

Walking or running is still allowed but you must keep at least 2m distance from others.

Day-tripper are not welcome to Brighton and police may be turning people away at the station.

The force will be sending officers to Brighton Station today and tomorrow and city leader Nancy Platts says visitors could be told to get back on the train.

The drastic measures are to avoid the scenes from last weekend when many people flouted social distancing rules to enjoy the sunshine on the beach.

“Do not travel to Brighton and Hove to use the beach,” the Labour leader of Brighton and Hove City Council said.

“Our message to people outside of the city is that the beach is closed to them.

“If people can’t show they live here, then they might get back on the train and go home – that is how seriously we are taking this.”

There is set to be an “enhanced police presence” at the station and officers will be asking people why they are coming to the city.

Councillor Platts said the drastic measures were to “keep citizens safe and NHS staff protected” after droves of people flocked to the beach last weekend.

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal.  Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund​