The average daily nitrogen dioxide emissions in a Borehamwood park dropped by 30 per cent compared to the same time last year.

Data was gathered from a monitoring station in Meadow Park a week after Prime Minister Boris Johnson told people to work from home if possible.

The station monitors the air quality of the surrounding park and is situated at the former Borehamwood Bowls Club site, which has since relocated to Aberford Park.

The levels of nitrogen dioxide detected at the Borehamwood monitoring station has dropped from a mean average of 21.7 mg/m3 from March 19-26 last year to 15 mg/m3 during the week of March 17-24 this year.

This represents a decrease of 30 per cent.

Nitrogen dioxide is highly toxic and produced by burning fossil fuels such as petrol or diesel used by vehicles.

It is likely the figure of 15 has reduced further following the government lockdown.

Councillor Seamus Quilty, responsible for the environment in Hertsmere, said: "Good air quality is important for everyone’s health but especially for anyone suffering from coronavirus, who may be struggling to breath.

"Countries around the world are reporting drops in pollution level following lockdown and a massive reduction in traffic.

"We are continuing to urge people to comply with government restrictions and stay home. Not only will this lead to less risk of the infection spreading but it could benefit air quality too.

"Stay home, save lives and protect the NHS."