Cassiobury Park car park has been closed after “thousands” of people risked their lives and others by choosing to flout government Covid-19 guidelines and 'picnic in the sun'.

Police requested Watford Borough Council close the car park after officers patrolling the park were alarmed by the vast numbers of people arriving this morning (April 4).

A council source said hundreds of people were gathering at the park, with temperatures reaching 15°C, to enjoy the sun and picnic, despite the government last night urging residents to stay home during the coronavirus pandemic.

The council has swiftly moved to close the car park for the weekend, with mayor of Watford Peter Taylor revealing 'thousands' more were expected.

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However, as there is only one way in and out, officials must wait for drivers to leave before closing it completely – police officers are currently on standby, ensuring no new cars enter.

The mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, blasted the ‘inconsiderate’ park goers and called for people to take greater responsibility during this moment of crisis.

He said: “Not only are you endangering your own life, but you are putting the lives of other people at risk. This is an incredibly serious situation for Watford and for the country.”

Mr Taylor added: “Given the severity of this situation people need to follow the NHS advice about social distancing and only doing one hour of physical activity a day.

“We have received reports that there were thousands of people going there today, the car park is absolutely full, and that is extremely dangerous during a highly infections pandemic and is putting everyone’s lives at risk.

“We are closing the car par to ensure everybody’s safety and reduce the number of lives that are lost.”

In the daily Downing Street press conference yesterday, England's chief nursing officer Ruth May pleaded for people to stay indoors following the deaths of two nurses.

Areema Nasreen and Aimee O'Rourke, who were both in their thirties and each had three children, died this week fighting Covid-19.

She said: "This weekend is going to be very warm and it will be very tempting to go out and enjoy those summer rays.

"But please, I ask to remember Aimee and Areema.

"Please stay at home for them."

The Met Office has also pleaded for the public to stay home.

A spokesperson said: “Please remember, despite the sunny weather, during this coronavirus crisis the Government advice is to only go outside for food, health reasons or work, to stay two metres (6ft) away from other people and to wash your hands regularly.”

A Hertfordshire Police spokesperson said: "We take all reports of Covid-19 related incidents very seriously and are committed to engaging, explaining and encouraging our communities to adhere to the Government restrictions.

"The Watford Safer Neighbourhood Team has been and continues to patrol local areas where people might be tempted to gather. This includes Cassiobury Park where officers have been making sure anyone using the park is aware of the social distancing guidance which is in place in order to save lives."