Southend's fountains will remain closed over fears children will not be able to maintain social distancing.

Bosses at Southend Council have said despite retail and take-away businesses opening on the seafront, the fountains, including those on City Beach, will remain closed.

There are fears if the fountains do open, young children will struggle to observe the two metre distancing rules in a "limited space where there is a high concentration of people."

Council bosses have also urged visitors to stay safe on Southend's beaches, with an increase in assistance required from coastal rescue teams.

Martin Terry, cabinet member for community safety and customer contact, said: "While we are pleased to welcome visitors back to the seafront, we must reinforce and reiterate Government and local guidance.

"If you come to our town, please do so safely. Visitors have been spreading out further along the seafront which is good news, but they need to be aware of the tides and not endanger themselves or others.

"Retail and take-away businesses are open but many attractions remain closed for now including the Fountains at City Beach.

"This is due, in part, to the difficulties associated with encouraging children, especially young children, to observe the 2 metre social distancing guidance in a relatively limited space where there is a high concentration of people.

“We know parents do their best, but young children simply are not able to understand social distancing and children of any age can forget when they’re having fun.

"We feel is it safest for the community at this time, to keep playgrounds closed and the fountains switched off.

We do have the Lagoon and paddling areas along the seafront where children can play when the tide is out, at a safe distance from one another.

“We are learning and adapting as the national guidance changes, and we will continue to work together with seafront businesses to ensure that people who do decide to visit Southend, can do so safely."