Alliance Councillor Karen Douglas has reiterated calls for everyone to think carefully before visiting key beauty spots, after reports a PSNI officer was injured patrolling a packed Ballyholme beach.

Speaking after the PSNI released a statement confirming an incident had occurred, Karen said now was the time for everyone to ensure the good work for the last few weeks was not undone.

She added: “It is extremely shocking that anyone would be treated this way, but to attack an officer simply attempting to do her job in ensuring everyone follows the rules cannot go without punishment.

“We are in unprecedented times and it is our collective responsibility to protect lives across Northern Ireland by thinking very carefully about our actions.

“The weather is beautiful and we have started to see the loosening of some lockdown restrictions, but this does not mean it is simply life as normal and we cannot stand packed beauty spots where there is no room to follow the social distancing guidelines.

“My thoughts are with the officer involved and from this disappointing incident I would make a direct appeal to think carefully before getting in the car to visit beauty spots, and if you do decide to make the trip to meet friends or family then be sure to maintain a two metre distance at all times. Anything else is flouting the legislation.”