CASTLE Park, the jewel in Colchester’s crown, is normally a hustling hive of activity no matter when you visit.

Particularly when spring rolls around and the carefully designed floral displays begin to come into bloom.

But visit over the coming weeks and you’re likely to notice things are a little different.

They’ll be no sign of the hundreds of runners taking on parkrun at the weekend or of families enjoying the serene surroundings during the Easter holidays as the country is under lockdown due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Castle Park’s green open spaces and woodland walkways will seem eerily quiet and Colchester Castle remains closed to visitors.

But although Colchester Council has moved to close all its playgrounds and outdoor gym equipment, including in Castle Park, the park itself will remain open for the foreseeable future.

It will, however, have reduced opening hours and only one set of toilets at attraction will be available for use.

All of the council’s other open spaces, such as Salary Brook Nature Reserve, will also remain open for residents to use.