YOUTHS have been spotted playing on a Bolton skate park despite signs warning that it is closed to help combat the spread of coronavirus.

Bolton Skate Park, close to Morrisons in the town centre, has been closed for several months in line with government guidance on safety and social distancing.

However, youths on skateboards and scooters have been visiting the park, with up to a dozen people spotted in the small area on several occasions.

Several groups have been sitting close together on the park's ramps, while others have been playing without any safety measures in place.

A sign on the park's fencing reads: "This facility is temporarily closed. We apologise for any inconvenience."

Another sign reads: "Coronavirus pandemic ­— to help comply with government instructions, this park is closed until further notice."

Great Lever councillor Mohammed Iqbal said: "It is very important that people adhere to the government and authorities' guidelines regarding the coronavirus.

"We have done so much and made so many sacrifices over the last two or three months and we must continue to follow the rules.

"I would say to those at the park, 'Think of other people and yourself'.

"If you are in a group, it is a danger to you, your family and the wider community."

The skate park has no gates - meaning anyone can easily access the facilities.

The park's fencing is also low, with people easily being able to climb over.

Many play areas and other outdoor facilities that can increase the risk of transmission of covid-19 have been closed since the start of lockdown.

A town centre worker, who did not wish to be named, said: “I’ve seen groups of kids on there a few times. It was packed when the weather was nice. They should pay attention to the signs.”

As lockdown restrictions ease however, such areas are expected to begin reopening, albeit with new guidelines.

Last week, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that most leisure facilities and tourist attractions will reopen if they can do so safely, including outdoor gyms and playgrounds, theme parks and arcades, as well as libraries, social clubs and community centres.

“Close proximity” venues such as nightclubs, soft-play areas, indoor gyms, swimming pools and spas will remain closed for the foreseeable, as will bowling alleys and water parks.