Some pupils returned to school last week as the unfurling of lockdown measures began, but parents are being asked to remain vigilant to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at schoolgrounds.

There are procedures in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus that this reopening could cause, such as fewer pupils attending and staggered exit times.

But one parent was worried by what she saw at the school gates of Lochnorris Primary at the Barony Campus on Monday.

They said: “I am concerned with the situation at Lochnorris Primary... Parents not social distancing, putting people like myself who have health issues at risk from catching COVID-19.

“At drop off this morning I asked this guy if he could move so my child can get in. He told me to f*** off, that he was here first and he continued close contact with four others huddled around. They don’t care.”

An East Ayrshire Council spokesperson said: “Adults must wear a face covering on school grounds and in any busy areas nearby, stay 2m from other parents and carers and not gather in groups.

“Only one adult should drop off and collect their child/children to avoid congestion. Our parents and carers have supported the council’s efforts throughout the pandemic and we know we can count on them in the weeks ahead.”

The spokesperson added: “The Barony Campus has robust measures in place to manage the arrival and departure of pupils from all schools based within the Campus. It is essential that our parents and carers support a safe return for their children.

"A letter from National Clinical Director, Jason Leitch, which sets out actions that parents and carers are advised to take, has been sent to all parents and carers, it has been published on our website and promoted on social media. ”

The call has added importance now with the first minister confirming yesterday that as of March 15 all primary pupils will be back in school full-time, which will likely lead to more difficulties in preventing transmission around schoolgrounds.