The Penarth boating community will be affected by Cardiff Harbour Authority's announcement that they have closed the barrage locks along with boaters use of the Pont-y-Werin bridge.

They said: ''As of midnight Thursday, 2nd of April 2020, and until further notice, Mariners are advised that given the current unprecedented situation; government advice to avoid all but essential travel; the pressure on public and emergency services; and, the lack of open available facilities for visiting vessels, Cardiff Harbour Authority barrage locks will be closed to traffic except for emergencies.

''The Pont-y-Werin pedestrian footbridge will also remain lowered except for emergencies.

''Cardiff Harbour Authority, in line with the government advice, do not deem the use of a vessel for recreational purposes as essential travel nor the journey to a vessel for use in recreational activity as essential travel.

''CHA requests that all mariners refrain from using their vessels in Cardiff Bay and on the River Taff and Ely and we are also not permitting the use of our pontoon systems or slipway until further notice.

''This virus affects us all and has placed significant restrictions on how we function on a day to day basis and we ask that you adhere to our requests until such time that the threat from Covid-19 is much reduced.

''We thank you in advance for your understanding.''

Mariners are also reminded that CCTV is in operation at the Barrage for operational and health and safety reasons.