Dorset Police will not be changing its stance on travelling to exercise despite fresh guidance.

New guidance issued by the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) and College lists what might and what might not constitute a ‘reasonable excuse' to leave the place where you live.

The document states driving to countryside and walking is 'likely to be reasonable' where 'far more time is spent walking than driving.'

However it also states driving for a prolonged period with only brief exercise is not.

Dorset Police has said it's not changing advice on travelling.

A spokesman said: "Government advice remains the same, and it is expressly to prevent the spread of coronavirus, to save lives, and to protect the NHS.

"There has been much discussion around what the legislation does and doesn’t specifically prohibit. The legal aspects of the legislation are based upon whether a person’s actions are reasonable or not. Officers will continue to make individual judgements based on the specific circumstances presented to them.

"The key to making this work for everyone in Dorset, and across the country, is for everyone to be reasonable. If you can exercise with a run or a walk near your home, it is reasonable for you to do so. Our interpretation is that it is not reasonable, for the majority, to drive miles to a specific place such as a beauty spot. It is also not within the spirit of what we are trying to achieve if you drive from the north of the county to the coast for surfing, regardless of whether that is 'lawful' or not.

"We are grateful that our communities understand what we are all trying to achieve together and are supporting us with this. Enforcement will only be used as a last resort. Officers will continue to use discretion and police with consent.

"We enjoy the relationship we have with our communities and will continue to engage with people we meet, to provide reassurance and education at this challenging time."

The force's advice remains the same, which is to:

Only go outside for essential food, health reasons or work (but only if you cannot work from home).

If you go out, stay two metres (six feet) away from other people at all times.

Do not meet others, even friends or family. You can spread the virus even if you don’t have symptoms.