Rutland County Council is encouraging people to be considerate of one another when leaving home to exercise during the current COVID-19 lockdown.

With important social distancing rules still in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, protect NHS services and save lives, everyone is currently limited to one form of exercise each day.

Even while outside, it is important that people stay at least two metres away from anyone who is not a member of their household, to reduce the risk of catching or transmitting the virus.

With more people taking to local roads and footpaths to run, walk or cycle, the council is calling on everyone to be as considerate as possible when coming across others.

Coun Lucy Stephenson, Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "While government guidance remains in place, it's vital that we all practice effective social distancing and keep two metres apart.

"Rutland doesn't generally suffer from congestion or overcrowding. Even so, pavements and public rights of way can be narrow in places, which can sometimes make it tricky to keep an appropriate distance from others. Additionally some rights of way pass through farmyards and gardens, requiring extra care and consideration.

"We all have a duty to look after each other, particularly at times like this, so please make every effort to think ahead, give way or change your route to allow others to pass by safely.

"Similarly, cyclists can help by only riding on the road, bridleways or designated cycle paths. Small gestures like this can go a long way to putting people at ease in what is a period of great anxiety."

The UK government has published specific guidance on using green spaces, as well as protecting yourself and others from COVID-19. This can be read online.

People are encouraged to try and use quieter parts of Rutland's extensive network of public rights of way wherever possible, without undertaking unnecessary travel.

Anyone accessing the countryside is asked to be considerate of landowners and livestock, keep dogs on leads and pick up after their pets.

Residents can contact Rutland County Council with details of any 'hotspots' where they feel overcrowding is a particular issue.

The council will then consider whether there are any appropriate measures that could be introduced.