Residents across Cornwall are being urged to stay safe when venturing out for their daily exercise.

During lockdown you are allowed to leave your home to exercise but you should stay local to your town or village wherever possible and not take unnecessary risks.

Cornwall Council is urging residents to avoid crowded spaces where it may be harder to socially distance and to be careful if you’re near the coast. There are more rock falls in winter so it’s best not to walk beneath cliffs at this time of year.

The RNLI is reminding people to people to stay well back from stormy, wintry seas and cliff edges, check tide times before you go out, and make sure you take a phone with you. Always call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard if you or someone else is in trouble.

Councillor Rob Nolan, cabinet member for Environment and Public Protection, said: “Getting some exercise, even just a short walk, can make a big difference to how we feel and it’s important that we all look after ourselves as best we can.

“But we do ask that people think carefully before travelling to exercise. If you can exercise close to your home please do and when you are out and about, try to stay away from others and stay safe.”

RNLI lifeboats and stations remain operational and will launch around the clock where there is risk to life.

Steve Instance, the RNLI’s water safety lead for the south west, said: “We would encourage everyone to follow the latest government guidelines on what they are able to do and where they are able to go during lockdown, but for anyone visiting a coastal area please understand the risks to be as safe as possible and not put unnecessary strain on front line services.

“No one ever heads to the coast with the expectation of needing to be rescued yet rescues are occurring every day. So, whether you are walking, running or cycling at the coast, or doing some activity on or in the water, please be extra responsible and avoid taking unnecessary risks.”