Scotland is in lockdown. Shops are closing and newspaper sales are falling fast. We're not exaggerating when we say the future of local newspapers and the vital service we have provided for many years is under threat.

Please consider supporting Barrhead News in whatever way you can - by paying just 90p for a copy of the newspaper when you're shopping for essential supplies for yourself and others or by subscribing to our e-edition here.

******************

EAST Renfrewshire Council has closed car parks at the area's beauty spots in a bid to prevent people flouting Covid-19 lockdown rules.

Last week, council chiefs had said there were "no plans at present" to close car parks at local green spaces, despite similar action in neighbouring Renfrewshire and Glasgow.

However, it has now been confirmed that motorists are no longer welcome at East Renfrewshire's parks either.

A statement on East Renfrewshire Council's dedicated coronavirus webpage reads: "Following the advice issued by the Scottish Government, car parks at our parks are now closed to prevent people driving to them and ignoring the stay-at-home guidance. The parks remain open.

"If you're visiting any of our public parks, please comply with the rules set out by the government on Monday, March 23, which state that play equipment should not be used. You should also adhere to the rules of social distancing and not gather in crowds."

Council chiefs also confirmed that Rouken Glen Pavilion is now closed to the public and will only be accessible for disabled toilet facilities.

For updates on how the Covid-19 outbreak is affecting council services in East Renfrewshire, visit www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/coronavirus.

Read all the latest from Barrhead and beyond