PLAY parks across East Lothian will reopen from Monday as restrictions imposed during the Covid-19 lockdown continue to ease.

East Lothian Council said playgrounds and parks which it closed to prevent the spread of the virus at the start of lockdown will be opened as yet another “small step” forward.

Councillor Norman Hampshire, depute council leader, thanked residents for their patience as restrictions saw many council services suspended and access to car parks and playgrounds denied.

He said: “I’d like to thank the people of East Lothian for their support, patience and understanding throughout this period.

“It’s clear, however, that this progress remains fragile. The virus has taken its toll on far too many people and their families across the country.

"It continues to pose a significant risk and we must do everything we can to curb its spread.

“We are supportive of the small, incremental steps being made in further easing the lockdown restrictions.”

Last weekend, coastal car parks reopened and from Monday brown bin services will return on a monthly basis.

Public toilets remain closed.

Meanwhile, all four council recycling centres – Dunbar, Macmerry, North Berwick and Kinwegar, by Wallyford – are now accepting the full range of materials and the

maximum of five bags of waste has been removed.

A spokesman for East Lothian Council added: “Please note, though, that staff cannot help lift materials for you

and social distancing guidelines must be observed.”