A DORSET park has been closed to all vehicles following government instructions telling people to stay at home.

Poole Park has now shut its car parks and roads within the popular area following advice from Dorset Police.

A statement by the park warned people to stay home, save lives and "act like you've got it", referring to the coronavirus pandemic.

They also said: "We know it's good weather, but please only exercise directly from your home."

It comes after the government told people they should only leave home to buy essentials or food, for one exercise a day, to care for the vulnerable or for essential travel to and from work on March 23.

But nearby residents have voiced their outrage amid the lockdown.

One person said: "Should have been closed three weeks ago full stop."

While another responded: "People will still flout the rules and walk there."

Several parks have been closed across Dorset and the UK following government instructions.

Police have powers to disperse social gatherings and can fine people if they are not outside for an essential reason.