"WE CANNOT relax our discipline now. If we do, people will die."

Health secretary Matt Hancock's advice ahead of a weekend of warmer weather could not have been clearer.

"Stay at home, protect the NHS and save lives - and you will be doing your part," the Conservative party member said.

This comes as favourable weather is set to return to the UK this weekend after a bitterly cold spring, sparking fears that sun-seekers could ignore social distancing rules and swarm to Brighton and Hove seafront.

But the Government has issued a sobering statement to anyone planning on disregarding the ongoing UK lockdown.

Mr Hancock said: "We are set for a warm weekend but the disease is still spreading and we absolutely cannot afford to relax the social distancing measures that we have in place.

"We cannot relax our discipline now. If we do, people will die."

He was not alone in sending this message to residents.

Brighton and Hove City Council, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Sussex Police reiterated the point.

Brighton and Hove divisional commander Nick May said: "We understand people will want to make the most of the nice weather, but we ask them to use common sense and continue to follow the government guidance, which has been put in place to protect the NHS and ultimately save lives.

"We ask people not to travel to neighbouring towns or cities, or areas that may be populated with lots of other people - for example, beaches and parks – as this will only serve to put yourself, your family and other people at risk.

"Exercise may be taken once a day but should be done so from your home and while observing the social distancing guidance.

"We will continue our day-to-day policing, which includes patrolling public areas.

"We will engage, explain and encourage people to do the right thing in following the government’s guidance but, if necessary, we will take enforcement action against those who do not comply.

"I know the current situation is frustrating, and many people are making difficult sacrifices, but pulling together and following the government's guidance will help save lives.

"For now, the priority remains staying at home, avoiding contact with others and stopping the spread of Covid-19. We thank everyone for their continued patience at this challenging time."