Boris Johnson has warned people that fresh air does not provide immunity against coronavirus after Brits flocked to the beaches this weekend.
The Prime Minister issued the warning at today's press conference at Downing Street following pictures emerging this weekend of Brits lapping up the sunny weather in public.
Mr Johnson urged people to keep at least two metres away from others in parks, saying he could be forced to introduce 'further measures' if people did not listen to the advice.
Thousands were photographed packing out seaside towns, parks, mountainsides and markets today, ignoring advice to avoid social gatherings.
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Brits have been snapped enjoying ice creams in parks, tucking into fish and chips by the coast and on long strolls in remote hills.
Visitors flocked to gift shops and stores by the seaside in Skegness, Lincolnshire, Whitby, North Yorkshire, Clevedon, North Somerset and other touristy settlements.
Scores also headed for the beach as the sun shone and temperatures exceeded 12C in Barry, south Wales.
But Government officials have repeatedly stressed Brits should be at home and avoiding going out.
The National Trust has even shut most of its attractions to encourage people to stop flouting the coronavirus guidelines.
Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick said people need to realise it "isn't a game" as Boris Johnson recommended those most at risk of contracting the deadly bug to stay at home for 12 weeks.
Mr Johnson said: "I want, of course I do, people to be able to go to the parks, open spaces and enjoy themselves.
"It is crucial for health, physical and mental well-being. But please follow that advice and don't think that fresh air in itself automatically provides some immunity.
“You’ve got to follow the social distancing rule, keep two metres apart, otherwise... there is going to be no doubt that we will have to bring forward further measures.”
Asked if the police would play a role in enforcing these measures if people continued to ignore them, he said: "If people can't do that, won't do that, don't do that, then of course we're going to have to bring in tougher measures.
"Of course we don't want to do that - but it may become necessary."
Answering a question about how parents will keep children apart in parks, the Prime Minister said: “If they can’t do it in a way that observes the two metre rule then of course we are going to have to look at further measures.
“We should all - as far as we can - stay home, protect our NHS and thereby save lives.”
