Councils are urging people to celebrate the Easter weekend safely following the easing of national Covid-19 restrictions.

It is anticipated many will take advantage of the four-day weekend to meet with family and friends, and representatives from Harrow and Brent Councils have issued a reminder that this must be done “responsibly”.

Since Monday (March 29) groups of six or two households have been able to mix outside, including in private gardens, while formally organised outdoor sports have resumed.

Cllr Krishna Suresh (Lab, Rayners Lane), who is responsible for crime and community cohesion at Harrow Council, said it is important to continue to obey the rules outlined by the Government.

“Please adhere to safety guidelines on social distancing, face coverings and handwashing,” he said.

“With many likely to head to outside spaces this weekend, please avoid crowded areas and consider your environment by taking litter home with you or disposing of it properly.

“Your efforts will help stop the spread of Covid-19 and maintain a tidier, safer borough for all.”

A similar message was relayed by a Brent Council spokesman, who said extra banners will be put up to remind people of social distancing measures.

“As lockdown restrictions are eased, we are asking all residents to enjoy our parks and open spaces responsibly, respecting the space and other park users – Covid-19 has not gone away,” he said.

He added council officers will continue to be on patrol to check people are not breaking the rules, with neighbourhood patrol officers focusing on Roundwood, Gladstone, and King Edward VII parks over the Easter weekend.

The council urged anyone who witnesses breaches of social distancing to report them to the police via 101 as they have powers to break up large gatherings.