A WARNING for residents to respect coronavirus lockdown measures was issued after reports of people using the equipment of a play area in Oxfordshire reached a local council leader.

Vale of White Horse councillor Emily Smith took to social media to issue a stark appeal to members of the public who have broken the tape surrounding the Long Furlong Play Area in Abingdon.

Ms Smith wrote on Facebook urging residents: "Please do not remove tape and signs put up by the district and town councils restricting the use of play and exercise equipment.

"The play areas and equipment are closed off for public health reasons."

ALSO READ: Ambulance crews move in at private school

She added that council staff are under huge pressure at the moment but will now have to go back to the park to replace the tape and warnings.

Ms Smith explained why it is so important for people to respect the lockdown restrictions, saying: "Open spaces are still fine for walks and exercise with people from your own household.

"But please respect the social distancing rules that are there to keep us all safe and protect the NHS at this time of crisis.

"Thank you to everyone who is cooperating with the public health and council guidelines and this difficult time. You are literally helping save lives."

However, one resident Zellah Davies was quick to point out on Facebook that Ms Smith's appeal may only encourage people to go out and use equipment at play areas.

All Oxfordshire play areas have been shut since March 25 when before nationwide lockdown began to prevent the spread of coronavirus, as they have across the country.