HEREFORDIANS will be able to head over the border into Wales for the first time in months today as lockdown restrictions are eased.

The requirement to stay local is being lifted today (July 6), allowing people to travel in Wales and into Wales. It will also mean outdoor visitor attractions can open and it will pave the way for the tourism sector to begin re-opening from July 11, if conditions allow.

First Minister Mark Drakeford said: "We live in such a beautiful part of the world and I know many of us are looking forward to visiting beaches, the countryside and our many beauty spots.

"People throughout Wales have done so much over the last few months to follow the rules and help reduce the spread of coronavirus – I thank them for their patience and understanding. I ask them to continue in this spirit.

"Unfortunately, over the recent weeks we’ve seen the results of people not treating parts of Wales with respect, with crowds leaving piles of litter in their wake. This selfish behaviour is a blight on our beauty spots and puts people at risk.

"While many footpaths and car parks are re-opening, not all facilities will be available in every location straight away. Please, check websites where possible and plan your visit. If your planned destination is too busy when you arrive, have a plan B ready and try an alternative car park or destination.

"Coronavirus has not gone away and, while the evidence shows the risk outdoors is lower, there is still a risk. We therefore need to continue to act responsibly. Be kind to local residents and to fellow visitors by parking considerately, leaving nothing behind and following the recently revised Countryside Code."

The Welsh Government has been working with local authorities, national parks, Natural Resources Wales and other landowners to ensure they are ready to welcome visitors, with new guidance about public toilets, focusing on hygiene, social distancing, signage and queuing.

The countryside code has been revised to ask people to consider the local community and other people enjoying the outdoors, ark carefully so access to gateways and driveways are clear, leave gates and property as you find them, follow paths but give way to others where it’s narrow, and protect the natural environment

Visitors are asked to plan ahead, check what facilities are open, follow advice and local signs and obey social distancing measures