COVID-19 latest: Social distancing ignored as venues reopen across England

COVID-19 latest: Social distancing ignored as venues reopen across England


Despite warnings from health officials that the pandemic is far from over, some patrons ignored social-distancing rules

Police were prepared for a busy night as England emerged from its months-long "national hibernation" with a "Super Saturday" of reopenings that included pubs, restaurants, theme parks, hairdressers and cinemas.

Many could not resist the opportunity to return to their local for their first poured pint at the pub since lockdown was enforced to stop the spread of coronavirus.

Despite warnings from health officials that the pandemic is far from over, some patrons ignored social-distancing rules.

The reopenings kicked off on the eve of the National Health Services' 72nd anniversary. On Saturday night, Britons who chose to stay home instead of venturing out paid their respects to the NHS, by lighting a candle in memory of those who lost their life to coronavirus.

12:36 am: Pubs call it an early night after violence

Pubs shut their doors to the public on their first day of trading in months after violence escalated on Saturday night.

Nottinghamshire Police arrested four people after reports of antisocial behaviour at "a small number of pubs north of the county".

"Following the incidents, three pubs in Mansfield and Sutton in Ashfield plus two premises in Arnold and Newark have chosen to close their own premises," police said. Inspector Craig Berry said "no pubs have been closed by the police".

"Officers were quickly on the scene to deal with a number of alcohol-related anti-social behaviour reports including a smashed window and minor assault. As a result four arrests were made by officers and we supported licensees who chose to close their own premises," he said.

"We'd like to thank the majority of the public who have acted responsibly throughout Saturday, especially whilst watching the much-anticipated Derby versus Forest match.

"There will be a large number of uniformed officers on duty across our communities overnight to ensure people are safe, as well as engaging, educating and encouraging people to stick to the government guidelines."

12:16 am: 'We’re asking Londoners to support and protect the NHS'

London Ambulance Service's Gold Commander, Darren Farmer, has asked people heading out to consider the extra pressure on health services this weekend and play their part to help reduce the spread of coronavirus.

"We are expecting to be busy this weekend as some of the government’s coronavirus restrictions are eased," he said.

"We are urging Londoners to use our service wisely: enjoy yourself but please be careful, responsible and sensible. Covid-19 has not gone away. You must still maintain social distancing."

Gold Commander Farmer said the public had been supportive during the pandemic and protected the NHS by staying home during the lockdown. "Now we’re asking Londoners to support and protect the NHS by acting responsibly.

"This weekend we mark 72 years of the National Health Service. Show your appreciation by acting sensibly, which will reduce pressure on our Service and on A&E departments.

"Please drink sensibly if you’re drinking alcohol. Have soft drinks like water in between alcoholic drinks and eat before you start drinking. Look after your friends."

11:52 pm: Medication stolen from ambulance

Cleveland Police launched an appeal on Saturday night after a bag with "potentially dangerous" medication was stolen in Billingham. The bag was stolen when an ambulance attended a medical incident on Cotswold Crescent about 10pm on Friday.

"Following this, a member of the public handed the bag of medication to a male driving a grey Alfa Romeo, which had a 07 registration plate, who said that he would return the bag to paramedics who were parked in an ambulance nearby," police said.

"Ambulance service colleagues did not receive the bag and reported the medication as stolen.

"If taken by someone who is not prescribed the medication, it could be very dangerous." Anyone with information about the stolen medication is asked to contact police.

11:33 pm: Virus? People forget to keep their distance on first night out

Social distancing seem to be ignored by many who made the most of their first proper night out in months as part of "Super Saturday".

Writing for The Telegraph, Home Secretary Priti Patel issued a warning to the public not to "jeopardise the hard work and sacrifices we have all made" by engaging in "irresponsible behaviour and carelessness" after lockdown ends.

Video emerged on social media of areas filling with people, apparently unconcerned about the threat of spreading coronavirus after months in lockdown.

London Ambulance Service was among health authorities urging people to remember the dangers of Covid-19 when heading out this weekend.

"Please drink sensibly if you're going to the pub tonight. Enjoy yourself, but please be careful and responsible," the service tweeted.

"Coronavirus pandemic has not gone away. You must still follow advice on social distancing."

 The Metropolitan Police said "the virus hasn't called time" and warned people on Saturday of the dangers of ignoring rules aimed at keeping everyone safe.

"Businesses have worked hard to re-open in these difficult times, but will undoubtedly look and feel different," police said.

"If you are out today, please be responsible, stay safe and follow social distancing and other guidance that has been put in place."