Coronavirus: Ashdown Forest full of visitors on Mother’s Day despite social distancing warning

Despite several warnings from the government about social distancing to help fight the coronavirus pandemic, dozens of visitors flocked to Ashdown Forest to bask in the sunshine on Mother’s Day.
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Pictures taken by photographer Eddie Howland show the national forest at Wych Cross, Forest Row, brimming with visitors.

Mr Howland told the Express: “Everyone seems to be getting out while they can.

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“What is usually a quiet space, there were loads of people everywhere.

Visitors flock to Ashdown Forest on Mother's Day despite social distancing warning. Picture: Eddie HowlandVisitors flock to Ashdown Forest on Mother's Day despite social distancing warning. Picture: Eddie Howland
Visitors flock to Ashdown Forest on Mother's Day despite social distancing warning. Picture: Eddie Howland

“There were people on almost every path and every car park was full.

“I have never seen it like that before ever, even in the height of summer!”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson urged people to not visit their loved ones on Mother’s Day and to follow social distancing guidelines.

His warning came after it was announced that the number of people who have died in the UK with coronavirus had risen to 281, and cases had reached 5,683.