Hundreds of Scots flocked to an Edinburgh beach to bask in the warm weather despite the coronavirus lockdown.
Sun-worshippers were snapped flouting the rules as they gathered on Portobello beach today.
Police officers wearing masks were called to the area and asked those lounging on the sand or paddling in the sea to move on.
The beach-goers were breaking restrictions on leaving their homes, which have been in place for more than six weeks, even if they observed the two-metre social distancing advice.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon told previously how the country’s slight relaxation of lockdown rules, which allowed Scots to exercise more than once a day, didn’t apply to “sunbathing, picnics or barbecues”.
The Scottish leader has repeatedly made it clear that the ‘Stay Home’ message remains in force despite England’s shift to ‘Stay Alert’.
Portobello beach, traditionally a magnet for families and sunbathers during the summer, was enjoying soaring temperatures yesterday.
It was predicted to be the hottest day of the years so far, reaching up to 22C, and many were unable to avoid temptation.
Some had spread out blankets to catch rays or read books, while sun shelters were pitched for those obviously planning to make a day of it.
Families with young children running about could be seen on the sand.
Many were gathered when the tide was high on the beach, squeezing the available area for them to space themselves out.
The promenade at the beach was also bustling with walkers out for a stroll, making social distancing difficult.
A Police Scotland spokeswoman said its officers would continue to take steps to avoid such scenes being repeated.
She said: “The Scottish Government’s guidance is clear - people should only leave the house for very limited purposes, for example for basic necessities, such as food and medicine, for exercise, for medical needs or travelling for work which cannot be done at home.
“Our officers will continue to engage with the public, explain the legislation, encourage compliance and will use enforcement only when necessary.”
Last week, large numbers of people were photographed in a Glasgow park apparently ignoring lockdown rules.
Families and groups of sunbathers were pictured in the city’s Botanic Gardens.
Despite upholding the two-metre rule, they were violating restrictions on leaving their homes. Pictures on social media later showed police officers speaking to some of the culprits.
Glasgow City Council said its parks were open for “exercise and active travel only”.
The government has advised people should only leave home if they have a reasonable excuse.
This includes exercising - alone or with members of your household - along with shopping for basic necessities and for any medical need or providing care for a vulnerable person. Scots can also travel to or from work if you cannot work from home.
