Council chiefs have said they cannot rule out the possibility outdoor equipment will not contribute to the spread of coronavirus.

It comes as Swale council announced it will shut all children's play areas tomorrow on Sheppey and in Sittingbourne and Faversham amid fears of the potential spread of the virus.

The local authority also warned people to stay away from other open spaces – including parks and beaches – and to make sure they are distancing themselves from others.

A Swale council spokesman said: “We are urging people to follow the government advice to stay safe by avoiding parks and beaches.

“Visits for exercise are acceptable, but only if you are practising social distancing - staying at least six feet away from others - and washing your hands when you return home.

“We are also closing our children’s play areas and recommend you avoid all play area equipment and outdoor gym equipment.

“With the volume of people using them, we cannot guarantee that they are not contributing to the spread of the virus.

"We are also closing our children’s play areas and recommend you avoid all play area equipment and outdoor gym equipment."

“Please make sure you pay attention to the closure posters at each site that will be going up from tomorrow.

“Please follow government guidelines on social distancing, and isolate as necessary to keep you, your loved ones and other members of your community safe.”

Over the weekend people reacted in anger as visitors flocked to Whitstable.

Read more: All the latest news from Sheppey

Read more: All the latest news from Sittingbourne

Read more: All the latest news from Faversham

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