York's city walls closed in bid to help people abide by social distancing rules

City of York Council shut the walls on Monday afternoon to help people observe social distancing measures amid the coronavirus outbreak.

Resident Dr Jonathan Fisk said he saw there were lots of people walking along the narrow city walls at the weekend, making it difficult to keep to the government’s social distancing guidance.

He said: “People could not keep a safe distance. The walls need to be closed for the duration.”

Join our new coronavirus Facebook group for the latest confirmed news and advice as soon as we get it www.facebook.com/groups/yorkshirecoronavirusMeanwhile, the council is urging people not to take food to the hospital directly.

Instead, donations are being organised by a coordinator – so that meals and essential items can get to the vulnerable people who need them most.

A spokesman for the council said the local authority is very grateful for all the kind offers of food from businesses and groups, and work is taking place to distribute items to those most in need as quickly as possible.

If you would like to get involved, email [email protected].