Felixstowe councillor and leader of East Suffolk Council has asked people to put safety first following changes to the Government's COVID-19 guidelines and to remember that clear advice on social distancing remains in place.

The change from the 'Stay Home' message to 'Stay Alert' has allowed people more freedom in going to outdoor spaces, including using beach huts, chalets, parks and the seafront.

While people have now been given greater flexibility in relation to work, exercise and meeting other people, Cllr Steve Gallant is adamant that this should not be seen as a green light to push the limits of what is safe and reasonable, particularly in a resort like Felixstowe, which boasts a number of desirable visitor locations.

With sunny weather, and temperatures forecast to push into 20c plus, over the weekend and into next week numbers of locals and day-trippers visiting is expected to rise.

Cllr Gallant said: "I think it's entirely reasonable for the Government to allow people a little more flexibility in what they can and can't do – but people must understand that very clear rules remain in place to keep us all as safe and healthy as possible.

"I think the guidance is reasonably clear and the people of East Suffolk will have a pretty good handle on what's permitted. However it is also entirely understandable that some local destinations will be worried about influxes and I hope that people will think very carefully about any plans they make for travelling and visiting in East Suffolk.

"Second homes remain 'out of bounds' for overnight stays of course but with further good weather forecast over the next few days, I would be concerned if large numbers of people descended on our coastal and resort destinations and this is where common sense and caution is really important.

"The bottom line is that if people push this too far, tougher restrictions will be re-introduced and this is absolutely something which we must all do our very best to avoid. The 'stay home' message has not entirely disappeared and social distancing remains an incredibly important part of suppressing the virus."

The Felixstowe foot ferry resumes tomorrow, and is among those traders and businesses are opening in some way or another each day but Felixstowe Pier and amusements have not reopened as yet.

See link for update on which takeaway, shop, business or other outlet has opened.