PEOPLE are now able to drive to a Ludlow beauty spot to take some exercise.

The car park at the Mortimer Forest is now open again.

Its closure followed the introduction of the initial lockdown that allowed people to exercise once a day but stipulated that they should stay close to home and not make unnecessary journeys.

“It is great that the Mortimer Forest car parks are now open,” said Andy Boddington, Shropshire councillor for Ludlow North.

“Enjoy the space. Use it to the full and stay safe.”

Forest England sent an email announcing the reopening:

‘The car parks around Mortimer Forest are open again.

‘We urge that people follow social distancing guidelines, avoid crowds and wash their hands before and after each visit.

‘We are sure many people will be keen to get out and about, so to avoid crowds, we are warning that people may need to make the necessary decision to turn around if a car park looks busy, or is full, and come another time.

‘Not all of our car parks are opening at once, but we are pleased to be able to open Mortimer. Many other car parks across the country remain closed, full information can be found here – www.forestryengland.uk/coronavirus-visitor-information

‘I hope this is good news for you, and that you and the residents of Ludlow stay safe.’

The relaxation of the rules will open the way for people to be able to visit other beauty spots in and around Ludlow and south Shropshire.

Following the changes there were opportunities for more people to visit the Linney and more people were also on Clee than when the measures were stricter. There was also a chance for people to take to their cars before getting out to walk the Shropshire Hill at Church Stretton.

But with the more stringent rules still applying in Wales people are not able to go over the border to exercise.