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HM Coastguard has issued a warning to those considering a visit to the beach throughout the UK coronavirus outbreak.

This comes as the service is being inundated with calls reporting groups of people on beaches across the UK.

It emerged only last week that members of the public were congregating to seaside towns for a day out - despite government warnings to stay at home. 

READ MORE: Police Scotland gain coronavirus powers to enforce UK lockdown

Pete Mizen, assistant director for HM Coastguard, said: “The rules are very simple and can be found on the Government website. Stay at home.

"The risk of spreading Coronavirus is huge and while you might be okay, the person you give it to may not. And if you get into trouble and have to call 999 and ask for the Coastguard, you’re then putting frontline emergency responders at risk of COVID-19 too.

“At this time of the year the beaches aren’t lifeguarded which is a double risk to you and our emergency responders.

"Help us to help you. Stay at home.”