West Country beauty spots and attractions brace for influx of tourists this weekend amid lockdown easing

• Watch the full report from ITV West Country correspondent Richard Payne

Beauty spots and visitor attractions are bracing themselves for an influx of tourists this weekend - the first since lockdown restrictions were relaxed.

Cheddar Gorge in the Mendip Hills attracts a number of people at this time of year. Amid the coronavirus pandemic it has been a cause for concern among locals.

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Large gatherings are a regular sight in this part of the region and the easing of lockdown is giving some reason to fear this weekend will be no different.

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In recent weeks the long road through Cheddar Gorge has been closed to stop people from travelling through.

It has now been reopened, and while welcomed by many, locals are urging visitors to stick to the guidelines.

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Coastal communities in Devon and Cornwall have also expressed concern about people travelling to the region this weekend.

Unlimited travel is now allowed within England but those living in popular tourist destinations say they fear an influx of visitors could cause infection rates to rise.

• Watch the full report from ITV West Country correspondent Richard Lawrence, from Putsborough Sands in Croyde