FIRST Minister Nicola Sturgeon has said staying at home is "an expression of love, kindness and solidarity" in her address to the nation.
In a televised address on BBC One Scotland she thanked the Scottish public for adhering to lockdown measures.
She added: "The extent to which you have stuck to these rules – often at great personal sacrifice – has been truly remarkable.
“Seven weeks ago the virus was spreading out of control. Today, it is in retreat.
“Last week, we saw the most welcome sign of all. For the first time since the epidemic started, the number of deaths registered in a single week fell.
“So the progress is real and it is down to you. But our progress is still fragile. If we ease up too soon, the virus could run out of control again.
“We are asking you to stick with lockdown for a bit longer – so that we can consolidate our progress, not jeopardise it.”
“As a citizen, I miss my family too.”
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon's emergency coronavirus statement in full
The Scottish First Minister also offered a special thank you to children, with no date yet set for pupils to return to school north of the border.
She said: “Not being at school, or seeing your friends, or hugging your grandparents is really tough.
“But you have handled it brilliantly. I’m so proud of all of you.
“For all of us, I know it’s getting harder but let’s keep supporting each other even as we stay apart.”
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon pleads with media not to confuse England with whole of UK
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