Tourists are being urged to stay away by life-saving teams.

The Lake District Search and Mountain Rescue Association has asked holidaymakers to stay at home as people continue to flock to the Lake District.

The team are "deeply concerned" about the number of people travelling to Cumbria, putting "local people, team members and other emergency services workers at increased risk".

"We therefore echo the comments of the Assistant Chief Constable of Cumbria Police – Please stay away," a spokesman said.

"We are a dedicated group of over 400 volunteers who have been through some tough rescues and major incidents in our time together.

"We’ve always been there for you. However, we find ourselves in a unique situation and needing to focus on our families and our work right now.

"We must also fully support our NHS colleagues who are under pressure already – many of whom are team members in the Lakes."

"We accept that some of you may consider this to be an over-reaction. It is not.

"For over sixty years we have supported you to enjoy the mountains in every weather. For the foreseeable future we simply need you to return the favour.

"Please do not come to the mountains. Spread the word as far as you can."

A Cockermouth Mountain Rescue spokesman added: "Please act responsibly to minimise the effect of coronavirus on mountain rescue teams, and as importantly, on the rural communities across the UK that we represent."