135 fines issued in Greater Manchester for indoor gatherings breaching Covid restrictions

Photo: Brian Jackson

Over the weekend, Greater Manchester Police issued 135 fixed penalty notices with many being issued to people meeting up indoors or meeting in groups of 15 or more people

Over 100 fines have been issued to people meeting up indoors this weekend in Greater Manchester, after a slight change in Covid restrictions was introduced on Monday 8 March.

Last week part one of step one of the easing of Covid-19 restrictions took effect from Monday 8 March, which included the reopening of schools and two people from different households being able to socialise outdoors.
 

Read more: Govt 'roadmap' out of lockdown to start with the reopening of schools for all pupils from 8 MarchPublished: 22 February 2021

All schools and further education have reopened to all pupils for face to face teaching, and recreation in a public space - such as a park - is now allowed between two people, meaning they would be allowed to sit down for a picnic.

This slight change in the restrictions does not mean lockdown is lifted, and all other government-led regulations still apply, including meeting people in large groups and meeting people indoors.

Superintendent Chris Downey said: "I was working this weekend and covering all Covid related incidents. It was really disappointing to see the number of people breaching the regulations even though we are still in a national lockdown.

"We absolutely understand the frustrations felt, many people are now having a second birthday in lockdown, many have had to wait a year for wedding celebrations and more, but we are all so close to being able to celebrate with friends and loved ones without worry of a financial penalty, which can often be £800 or more."

Over the weekend, Greater Manchester Police issued 135 fixed penalty notices with many being issued to people meeting up indoors or meeting in groups of 15 or more people. Ninety fines were given to indoor gatherings of more than two people, and 23 given for house parties with more than 15 people.

Supt Downey said:“We don't want to have to give anyone a fixed penalty notice, especially in the current situation, however when we are faced with a clear breach of the rules, we unfortunately have to take enforcement action in an effort to protect people.

"There was some slight easing to restrictions last week, however the date for the next step is subject to change based on the level of infection rates. If the regulations are not adhered to this could increase the spread of Covid, meaning the date is pushed back for everyone.

“We all want to get out of lockdown, but we need to work together to make sure we continue to do our bit."

From 29 March, outdoor gatherings of either six people or two households will be allowed in public spaces and private gardens. Outdoor sports including organised adult and children's sport will be allowed to resume, including the reopening of golf courses and tennis courts. People will no longer be legally required to stay at home but should work from home if they can and try not to travel.

Clinically extremely vulnerable people are still being advised to shield until the end of March.