Thanks to Boris’, and the Government’s, easing of the very unclear ‘rules’ on social distancing, gatherings and use of the ‘outdoors’, peaceful Virginia Water was invaded by thousands over the weekend.

Social distancing became virtually impossible as crowds of people, understandably, took advantage of the beautiful Great Park, especially Virginia Water lakes.

Cars were parked everywhere and the police had to attend in numbers to issue tickets and to try and maintain the lock down rules! It seems that once visitors had decided to make the trip, nothing, not even the chance of a second outbreak of COVID-19, was going to prevent them from their piece of grass by the lake shores!

Whilst the local residents are aware of the privilege of having the Great Park, Virginia Water and Swinley Forest in our area, would we ‘invade’ our neighbours, without any consideration for them? I would like to think, not!
With the ending of ‘lock down’ and the difficulty in travelling abroad Ascot may be facing a long Summer of ‘invasions’.

Perhaps our local authorities will have to issue status warnings to update map and weather apps? This may help prevent the chaos, give the locals some respite and enable visitors to avoid the traffic jams, queues and aggravation. We all need a day out, so let us make it a stress free one for all.

Welcome the invaders…