The authority said the Yorkshire Dales were generally quiet. Photo: Bob Smith/grough

Bosses in the Yorkshire Dales said a handful of visitors had ignored instructions not to travel, but the national park was generally quiet.

The authority’s chief executive said people shouldn’t be penalised for the actions of others.

UK Health Secretary Matt Hancock has warned that he could not rule out tightening restrictions, though he said he was not planning any changes immediately.

He said: “I say this to the small minority of people who are breaking the rules or pushing the boundaries: you’re risking your own life and the lives of others and you’re making it harder for us all.”

The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority said its ranger service was once again a visible presence, supporting North Yorkshire and Cumbria police with their message to stay home and save lives.

The authority’s chief executive David Butterworth said: “Despite the actions of a few, who ignored government advice and travelled long distances to get here on Sunday, I am very grateful to the huge majority of people who heeded the message to stay home this weekend.

“People here have listened to government advice and largely followed it. They shouldn’t be penalised for the actions of others, so I would ask, as we approach the Easter weekend, that everyone continues to heed the restrictions.

“I know it’s frustrating, particularly when the good weather comes, but the sooner we get on top of the virus the sooner we can return to some kind of normality.

“It’s vitally important that people continue to follow government guidance and not make unnecessary trips to, or around the national park, whether visitor or local.

“The Dales will be here for us all when all this is over. Stay home and plan your visit for when the restrictions on travel are lifted, and when local businesses will be ready to welcome you.”

UK Government guidance is that people should only undertake essential travel and only leave their home for one session of exercise, walking running or cycling, a day, alone or with household members; to travel to work when they cannot work from home; shop for necessities such as food and medicine, and for any medical need. In all cases, people should maintain a 2m distance between others they encounter.