MINEHEAD beach will not be closed to dogs during the coronavirus crisis, the deputy leader of Somerset West and Taunton Council.

Cllr Benet Allen said the usual summer restrictions were being lifted but dog owners were still responsible for their pets’ behaviour and cleanliness of the beach.

“The beach is normally off-limits to dogs, for the benefit of tourists”, said Cllr Allen.

“But during the pandemic, the beach is a big empty space where dogs and their owners can safely take some exercise, seek some solitary reflection or just bound into the water in search of a stick.”  

Cllr Allen and his partner Sally have two Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Ruby and Diddy: “I’ve never been very good at either throwing sticks or retrieving them, and none of us are very keen swimmers,” he said.

He plans to put up temporary notices on the seafront, including the message: “All users of the beach must remember the Government guidelines on social distancing. Enjoy the beach!”