DUDLEY council is asking people to stick to rules around social distancing - even in green spaces - after reports that a Halesowen park was so busy its car park was gridlocked.

Leasowes Park, off Mucklow Hill, was so busy on Sunday (November 22) that there were reports of people having to reverse back onto the busy dual carriageway because the car park was full.

People have been flocking to green spaces during the second lockdown and Dudley Council is appealing for people to stay safe and adhere to social distancing rules while enjoying outdoor space to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Councillor Karen Shakespeare, cabinet member for public realm, said: “We are aware that Leasowes was busy on Sunday as people took advantage of the nice weather, similar to parks and open spaces elsewhere in the region.

"While people are allowed to walk and exercise outdoors under current government guidelines, it is absolutely vital that people adhere to the rules on social distancing and other important measures.

"Our rates are among the highest in the country and we will only bring them down, and keep people safe, if we all play our part in following government rules.”