VISITORS are once again being warned to stay away from Sussex this weekend.

Brighton and Hove is forecast to bask in glorious sunshine and 20C heat but police have urged people not to make unnecessary journeys during the bank holiday heatwave.

It comes after it was revealed the “vast majority” of the 348 fines issued for flouting social distancing guidelines in Sussex during the first weeks of the coronavirus lockdown were issued to day-trippers from outside the county.

The Argus:

A force spokeswoman thanked those following Government advice intended to stop the spread of coronavirus, but added: “We are still seeing people make unnecessary journeys and that includes people coming to Sussex for day trips including visiting friends and families.

“Our message to those individuals is clear: Please stop to consider the impact of your actions and don’t visit us this bank holiday weekend.

“Once it’s safe and we have further guidance, you will be welcomed back.

“We have already fined numerous visitors who have disregarded restrictions by travelling to and within Sussex for non-essential reasons.

The Argus:

“We hope we won’t have to again. Our officers will continue to patrol urban and rural communities over the bank holiday to engage with members of the public, explaining the importance of adhering to the guidelines and encouraging people to take personal responsibility for their actions.

“Where absolutely necessary we will enforce legislation.”

There are fears that people could be encouraged to flock to Brighton and Hove seafront after Boris Johnson said some lockdown measures could be lifted as early as next week.

The Prime Minister has also drafted a 50-page plan to remove the UK from the restrictions, it has been reported.

READ MORE>>> Five stage plan details how lockdown could be lifted over six months

The Argus:

This would see unlimited exercise allowed from Monday, with a phased return of primary school pupils at the end of this month as well as households being able to meet with one other household at a time.

Secondary school pupils could return at the end of June, followed by the reopening of pubs, bars and restaurants in September, under strict social distancing rules.

October, could see the return of fans to football matches and the reopening of gyms, with some lockdown measures still in place.

Brighton and Hove City Council’s director of health Alistair Hill, said that despite this announcement, it was “really important” to follow existing Government guidelines during the long weekend.

The Argus:

He said: “This week we’ve been hearing about possible easing of the current restrictions and the government is expected to make a statement about the next phase at some point over the bank holiday weekend.

“For this long weekend ahead, it is really important that we follow the current advice around physical distancing, only travelling when essential and enjoying up to one hour exercise outside our home alone or with household members.

“Whatever the new rules allow, we are all going to need to continue to consider our actions and how best to minimise the risk of spreading the virus.

The Argus:

“For example, at the council we’re asking all staff to continue with their current working arrangements until we can look at how the next phase can be safely introduced in the workplace.

“We do not want to risk raising the infection rate and once again putting the NHS and the care sector at risk.

“It’s been a strange few months and we have uncertain times ahead.

“But, through everything, I have been heartened by the compassion, dedication and expertise of so many people in Brighton and Hove.”

  • 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