Hundreds flock to Sandhaven beach as temperatures soar in South Shields

The beach looks the busiest it has been since lockdown was imposed by the Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday, March 23.

But as restriction measures were eased last week, and with the forecast showing sun all day, hundreds have headed to the beach for a day at the seaside.

Pictures and video from the beach show families and children making sandcastles and playing in the sea.

Today’s pictures show a stark contrast to those taken on Saturday, May 16 where the beach remained fairly quiet on the first weekend day since lockdown measures were eased.

From Wednesday, May 13, people are now allowed to take unlimited amounts of outdoor exercise and even play sports, but only with members of their household.

Visiting and sunbathing in local parks is also now allowed as is driving to other destinations.

But social distancing rules still have to be obeyed with the government warning bigger fines for those who break them.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson also announced a plan, during his address to the nation on Sunday, May 10, to further reduce the restrictions, saying that if the circumstances were right, schools and some shops would be able to open next month, with the government “actively encouraging” people to return to work if they cannot work from home.

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