CAR parks serving West Dunbartonshire’s parks will be closed to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the council has confirmed.

The decision comes after a large number of people disregarded government social distancing measures and ignored advice urging to people to only leaving their homes for essential travel or work.

A statement on West Dunbartonshire Council’s website said: “We’re lucky to have many beautiful parks in our area and are encouraging residents to make use of their local greenspace to exercise in line with government guidance to limit the spread of the coronavirus.

“Unfortunately, a large number of people are ignoring the government measures put in place by continuing to drive to parks in our area, particularly in Balloch.

“Working with Police Scotland, we’ll be closing car parks to prevent vehicles accessing our parks and encourage people to follow social distancing measures which are in place for their protection.

“The car parks at Moss o’Balloch and Balloch Parks will be closed later today and others will follow next week.

“Local people can continue to access parks in their area on foot and by cycle.”

Latest government figures have confirmed that 3,001 people have tested positive for coronavirus in Scotland, with 172 deaths.