PEOPLE in Somerset are being encouraged to enjoy themselves over the bank holiday weekend - without gong overboard.

Somerset’s director of public health, Professor Trudi Grant, has issued a message to the county's residents in the lead up to the long weekend and half term break.

Professor Grant's message is 'enjoy yourself...with caution'.

She has said a big thank you to all Somerset residents for getting us this far.

But she is reminding everyone that although infection rates in Somerset are low at the moment, the virus is still here and sticking to the guidance remains important.

On the question of taking a trip, she stressed the importance of planning ahead and travelling safely, including remembering things like insurance, checking in with accommodation on what to do if you or a family member become symptomatic during the stay and taking regular testing kits with you.

She said: "If you do decide to meet inside (in groups of up to six or two households) make sure you let the fresh air in.

“Even if you have been vaccinated either once or twice, we all must stick to the rules. The reason for this is because the vaccine protects us as individuals but we could still pass the virus on to other people. We must all follow the rules."